Looking around the hall at our AGM it struck me how lucky we are to share our lives with a breed so adorable, stubborn, wilful, naughty and utterly delightful. In case of doubt, I refer to Basset Hounds not other halves!

Our hounds in the branch range from three month old pups to Cooper, our sound, but senile, grumpy old man of fourteen.

I also thought how lucky the hounds are to have such caring owners in our branch. They are multi-talented, whether it’s preparing food, washing-up, chasing missing Bassets in the undergrowth on our walks, or separating over-amorous males from some quite co-operative bitches.

Much time is spent on ’phone and computer and at committees, arranging events; sussing out prospective walks; and pubs with car parks that can take our ever expending membership. Not forgetting the routine, but vital, secretarial duties and the production of the exciting LOWDOWN and our WEBSITE.

These matters don’t just organise themselves.

As in all clubs, we are a diverse group, but, all the better for that; and pulling together we will keep progressing for the benefit of our hounds. A pity our world leaders can’t do likewise. Perhaps, every family worldwide should eventually be issued with a Basset - Jill says, now I’m being stupid!

Finally, on behalf of us all, I wish to congratulate Michael Errey on his selection to judge our hounds at Crufts, last March. It was an honour well merited; and recognition of his many years of devotion to the breed and services as chairman of our parent club. Sadly, Michael felt he should not take up the appointment - in fairness to entrants. His stamina might not have lasted – large classes being anticipated. There is a five year run-up to appointments – just a pity he wasn’t on the list a couple of years earlier.