The Branch was well represented at this, the largest Championship Dog Show in the world.

Brian and Michael, our distinguished chairman and treasurer exchanging words of wisdom.

The numbers involved in this event are staggering; 23,000 dogs, 160,000 visitors over four days and the whole event spread over 25 acres of the N.E.C.

A total of 146 Basset Hounds, which had previously qualified by winning at other Championship Shows, had entered and were judged by Mr. Denis Ledward. Even though some very smartly dressed branch members showed their hounds well, few gained any top placings. However, this did not mar the enjoyment and it was good to meet with some Basset owning friends, including branch members who had made the long journey to Birmingham. At times the hounds on the benches were surrounded by numerous breed aficionados and the simply curious; and all this helped to create an exciting atmosphere.

Among the visitors were a charming, young couple from Argentina, Sofia Barrera and Omar Wahba (shown to the right with Brian and Barnaby). They were currently living and working in London. Sofia told us that she had left her two elderly Basset Hounds, with whom she was obviously besotted, in the care of her mother in Argentina and was missing them greatly. But she was finding some solace by cuddling many of the show hounds. They were members of the Basset Hound Club Argentino and greatly enjoyed their first visit to Crufts. They promised to keep in contact with our branch.

This year, one of the more novel innovations around the club stand was the appearance of all-butter, shortbread biscuits in the shape of Basset Hounds. Hand-made by Frankie, they were handed around with the compliments of the South East Branch and were relished by all. Barking mad, of course!

The day was exhausting for both people and hounds - but totally unmissable.