Open walked up working test on FT lines, 23rd August 2026 at Wholsea Farm; by kind permission of E and M Bramley.

Congratulations to all the award winners, and a huge thank you to the judges, all competitors, and the helpers on the day and behind the scenes. Without whom these events could not take place.

Open A/V Retriever Walked Up Working Test held on Field Trial lines on 23.08.26, in accordance Royal Kennel Club Regulations at Wholesea Farm, Holme on Spalding Moor by kind invitation of E and M Bramley.

The judges were Simon Capstick (A panel) Philip Dyson (B panel) with NP’s Anthea Shelley and Jason Barnes.

The Test location was a large area of Beet, almost completely devoid of any distinguishing features such as large weeds. Conditions were challenging as it was hot with almost no wind, so scenting conditions were also poor.

To enable consistent retrieves, at the Judge’s suggestion & with the Committee’s agreement, hand held dummy launchers were used by Andy & Mattie walking in the line. These provided consistently good distances for marked retrieves i.e. suitable challenges for Open dogs. Blinds were placed by Wendy and Rachel. Alan was Steward of the Beat calling the retrieves. Liz and Fiona carried the Game Bags supplying the Team with dummies. Sheila Tait was our Dog Steward. She had the difficult task of managing the several competitors running 2 dogs!

The standard of dogs and handlers was high and 15 of 31 starters survived to the 3rd round which was followed by a 4th round Run Off involving the only 4 Dogs with straight A scores. The Judges worked hard to make this Test as close to Field Trial conditions as possible and most people enjoyed the day. Hopefully competitors benefitted from the experience by understanding the areas of training they needed to work on as the Trialling season gets underway.

Congratulations to the worthy winners.

1st Lonicerium Mace. Handler, Bill Emms

2nd Garrenwell Bridget of Matternworth, Handler Russell Pettet

3rd Snowdell Silas, Handler Serena Richardson

4th Esless Olson of Aggsdale, Handler Andrew Sharp

COM Kentwone Polar Flame, Handler Liam Priestley

COM Botcherghyll Elder, Handler Hannah Welsh