LOWDOWN South East Basset Hound Club

THE SOUTH EAST BRANCH OF THE BASSET HOUND CLUB

FROM THE CHAIR by Brian Malin.

At this time of the year I suspect most of us unconsciously hark back to childhood and hope for a happy and merry Christmas. So I wish you all just that and, as we grow older, let’s also add peaceful.

Fat chance of that with children and/or grandchildren about! But then, they are central to the ‘happy and merry’ theme and it is their special time to remember – with affection, we hope – as they become older.

As the New Year fast approaches, we should reflect on what, if anything, our branch has achieved in 2008. For me, there were two massive advances.

The first was the production of LOWDOWN, our unrivalled quality magazine. This is entirely down to our editor, Tony Roberts, whose concept it was.

The second, following shortly after, was the equally professional website, designed by a member new to the branch – but not new to Bassets, Derek Harris.

Top marks and huge thanks to both. They have put us into this century.

Thanks also to our keen photographers and contributors – please keep sending in anything which might be of interest to your fellow members.

Having given pride of place to LOWDOWN and the website – Derek, now having the grand title of webmaster (Ed. Tell him that he can't have a uniform, Mr. Chairman) - I really want to thank our hardworking committee, with special mention of Rosemary Izard Corbett for all her hard work and guidance as secretary. So much work is done by all the officers and committee that is vital, but unsung.

Jean and Dusty Miller’s 40th Anniversary rosettes were exceptional and much appreciated, whilst Rosemary and Frankie jointly represent us on the committee of our parent club.

This year saw our 40th Anniversary Barn Dance in the lovely Old School Hall (Tudor, in part), Cuckfield. We were treated to a lovely buffet spread conjured up by Judy and Roger Howarth and helper. The lively band, Bonabril, and the patient caller helped us with the unfamiliar. I am still confused, but that is to be expected! Thanks to Pam McGough for suggesting them.

Great fun it certainly was and a true celebration ? especially as a number of long standing stalwarts of the branch attended. (Ed. See feature on page 14).

Rosemary and Frankie ventured to the Nationals in Texas. I am sure they will have written about their adventures, so I need only say they enjoyed themselves and we can be confident they brought our branch to the notice of those on the other side of the Pond.

Finally, well done to you, the members, without whom there would be no branch! It is great to have a hardcore (can I call them that in this age of innuendo?) of members supporting the walks and events, not forgetting the happy band who take pleasure in the show ring – good competitors all!

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