The Isleham Fun Show

The Showring!

Rosettes from Isleham Show

The fun show at Isleham did not start until 2pm, so an early departure was not required for the 90-mile trip. I had done all the preparations the previous evening, so had a relaxing start to the day, however it started raining just as we left. Stopping at the common to toilet Barney, we left Lincoln only to run into heavy rain. I had arranged to meet newfound friends via the Net in Isleham, and hoped for brighter weather for their first show.

I had remembered everything, except the excellent directions I had printed out from the motoring organization. As I know most of the route well I decided I could manage without returning, so drove on through the wet weather. Because this is a regular journey now, I don't need to look at the scenery; a good job on this rain soaked day, as I had enough difficulty seeing the road, let alone sightseeing. However, as I approached the area, and was required to navigate unfamiliar roads, the skies brightened, also lifting my spirits. Nearing my destination, I stopped to ask the way, getting detailed, easy directions. I arrived at Isleham, to find the pub where we had arranged to meet directly in front of me. I parked, and entered to a warm and friendly introduction from my new friends, and their lovable dog, who even put Barney in the shade. In this day and age it is difficult to find a pub that will allow dogs inside, but here they were not only allowed in, but received an affectionate greeting from the landlady, whose warm welcome extended to their owners.

After a pleasant hour chatting to my new friends Barney and Mo, with their dog Bob (I bet that will confuse a few) and enjoying their hospitality, we thanked the landlord and landlady of The Griffin, and went to find the venue for the show. It was to be part of Isleham carnival, and we traveled the short distance just in time for the parade. We moved around the sports field to park near the Dog Show. This was to be held in the corner of the tarmaced car park, due to dogs not being allowed onto the field, because of irresponsible dog owners not cleaning up after their pets.

Barney took his young dog Bob into the ring for the puppy class. He was awarded 1st place and came out with a grin that was to remain all afternoon, despite the light drizzle, which also failed to dampen our enthusiasm and enjoyment for the rest of the day.

There were plenty of classes to enter, unlike last week's local show, so we were kept busy for the afternoon. Much of the small ring was under a large tree, which remained adequate shelter for most of the time, only getting waterlogged towards the end. My Barney managed a 1st and 2nd and Barney took him and Bob into the best brace class, winning himself a 4th place.

Both dogs had gained a 1st, which qualified them to enter best in show. The competent judge had another look over the dogs, awarding best in show to a lovely dog that put all the rest in the shade. We were then awarded reserve, which rather surprised me, as Barney was looking a bit bedraggled by now.

We put the dogs in our vehicles, and retired to the caf� for a well-earned cup of tea, although Mo had kept a supply of refreshments coming all afternoon. After a chat and a rest, we collected the dogs, and went for a walk around the beautiful and quiet friendly village. It had of course stopped raining now the carnival was over. So we left for the journey home, after saying goodbye to our new found friends, and also the friends and organizers of the show, who I know from the CMC. Despite the weather, this has to be one of the most enjoyable days I have had at a show, and we came home with yet another trophy. I'll have to build a cabinet soon if this goes on.