Club History
From its foundation with Osmond Priaulx (well known in sporting circles) as President, the Club flourished, recording a membership of 206 in the first year. The first show, in March 1902 was held over two days and judged by Theo Marples, Our Dogs editor. It was a great success, and at the next show that August, Spratts, famous dog biscuit manufacturer, provided benching. Registration of births and transfers began in 1903, and from then until 1948 matings were also recorded, the dogs being identified by name and by sketches. Trophies were purchased (in those days with francs) some of which are still awarded today.
Many officials served for a considerable time, such as Augie Allain, Secretary from 1903 – 1945, Treasurer from 1912 until his death in 1945 and responsible for hiding many of the trophies from the German forces during the Occupation. The Club continued until 1939 with many incidents, problems and challenges, but ceased activities during the war, resuming in 1946 with a bank balance of £74. A great deal of “rebuilding” took place over the following years. May 1947 saw the first post-war show. For many years, dogs were vetted before entering the premises by the late Pierre Blampied MRCVS. Some dedicated officials and committee members served for lengthy terms of office, helping to reinstate the Club so that it again flourished.
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