NEWS HOUND

                 BRANCH'S AGM 2008.

On Sunday, 4th February the branch's 2008 A.G.M. was held, once again, in the very attractive Old School Hall in Cuckfield, West Sussex. Brian, our chairman, gave an eloquent and upbeat assessment on the club's activities over the past year. All were in agreement that they had all been great fun. He praised Rosemary for all the excellent work that she had done in the role of secretary.

Rosemary's own report said that the walks had been well attended. Although, it was thought that the trial walk organised for North Kent was a disappointment because so few local members attended. She was pleased to report that membership numbers had increased.

Michael announced in the Treasurer's report that the branch's finances were healthy; although, we can expect less interest due to lower interest rates. He told the meeting that membership subscriptions will remain the same for the coming year.

Jean, our walks organiser, reiterated that the numbers of hounds attending were pleasing. It was agreed that trophies will be awarded at the Christmas Dinner in December to the hounds who have attended the most walks.

Judy Stringer had resigned from the committee. It was proposed that she should be awarded an honorary life membership in recognition of all her dedicated service. Dusty Miller proposed that Michael Errey should also receive this honour and this was unanimously approved.

Tony Roberts was welcomed onto the committee.

Following the formal proceedings, those present were treated to light refreshments which were greatly enjoyed.

(Ed. Why not join come and join us at next year's AGM? )

CRUFTS - Hound Day: 9th March 2008

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

Branch members sampling the complimentary ‘Basset’ shortbread by the ringside at Crufts.

Frankie, Jean and Dusty, a trio of sharply dressed committee members.

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

Reproduced from page 7 of LOWDOWN Summer 2008