It was my Dad who introduced Wire Fox Terriers to our family, he first had one when he was a boy. Then in 1973, when he was older and married, he broke down on the A5 Watling Street in Cannock outside Beldon kennels. The owner, Les Atkinson, came outside and asked my Dad if he wanted to come in for a cup of tea while waiting for someone to pick him up. Les Atkinson showed and bred wire fox terriers, my dad bought one off him, her name was Dana.

He started going to Chase Ringcraft and met Beryl and Brian Blower and bought a dog called Turith Sapphire (pet name Sophie). He went on to show them for a short time and I helped him. As a child I wanted to show Wire Fox Terriers, but it was only later when I got married that my dream come true to own and show one. I bought Shorfox Lovely Lucy in 1991 from Mr and Mrs Gibbs and that's when my showing career began.

I joined the wire fox terrier association committee because I am passionate about the breed and I would like to help all new members to start showing their dogs. Being on the committee helped me learn more about the breed, and being with people who are as passionate about wire fox terriers as I am.

You can find out more about me at Shoalhill Kennels, Groomers & Exhibitors of Wire Fox Terriers.