Remembering agility friends who have passed away...


Antony Saggers

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Elizabeth Sagger's husband Antony on 23 March 2016.  He was such a helpful man - always doing ring party when there were plenty of others who could have.


Rita Alderson
 23rd September 1933 - 5th March 2016.

It's with great sadness that I am letting the Agility Community know that very sadly Rita Alderson passed away on March 5th. She will be greatly missed by all her Agility friends and even more so by her daughters Claire and Hazel. A truly inspiring lady who was well known at the shows for her amazing distance handling. Rita was still working her collie Millie well into her 80s.

They take a piece of your heart, as you likewise keep a piece of theirs. Never ever to be forgotten and with us forever. Our very dear friend Rita, we will treasure the swop. Thanks for being our friend.

She once told Nicolina Mansfield that she had seen One Man and His Dog and thought 'if he can do it so can I.'

In celebration of Rita's life, there will be a service on Wednesday, 23rd March at 10am at Peasmarsh Church, Peasmarsh, Rye, East Sussex TN31 6XS and afterwards at The Cock Inn, Peasmarsh. Perigoes are the funeral directors and any flowers need to be at their Northiam branch  by 4pm the day before. 

If donations preferred then either Parkinson's Disease or St. Michaels Hospice. Please send c/o J. Perigoe & Son, Dixter Road, Northiam, East Sussex TN31 6LB.

Sue Culmer


Peter Webster
Died 10 March 2016

Peter Webster sadly passed away in L&D Hospital Thursday morning, 10th March after a short illness.

He was involved with the startup of BATS Club which was one of the first ever UK Agility Clubs. Although he didn't compete very often, his main passion being Obedience, he enjoyed training his dogs and was a BATS trainer for many years.

For those wishing to attend Peter's funeral service, the details are as follows: 3.15pm Tuesday, 5 April at The Vale, Butterfield Green Road, Stopsley, Luton LU2 8DD. No flowers. Then back to Pete's afterwards, if you wish.

Liz Stedman

Jan Guyan's profile photo
Jan Guyan
 Died 27 February 2016

Some sad news from North of the Border. Jan Guyan sadly passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sagturday, 27th February. She fought to the very end - a truly brave lady.

Graham and I were by her side. The care she received from the staff at Roxbrough House in Aberdeen was outstanding. We can not thank them enough for what they did for Mum in her last few days.

RIP Jan. Scottish Agility will miss you.

I'm sure you all would like to pass on your thoughts to Graham personally. However, he has asked me to say, please could you all respect his privacy at this time.

Funeral arrangements
It's been a tough couple of days but I can now confirm Mum's funeral arrangements below. Mum has planned the whole of her funeral, so, as I'm sure you all can imagine it's going to be anything but normal!

The funeral will be on Wednesday,9 March at Kaimhill Funeral Home, Kaimhill Road, Aberdeen AB10 7JL

I have included the Funeral Directors website below should you wish to contact them direct for further information.

www.wmgilchristfuneraldirectors.co.uk

Rob Farry on FaceBook


Dick Farrar

Very very sad and have shed a few tears tonight after hearing that the agility community has lost a true gent today - such a loving, caring, and supportive man who will be dearly missed by many.

Thank you Dick Farrar for all you have done for this wonderful sport and the many happy memories we have shared. We will miss you.

Thoughts go out to Rita  and family at this difficult time - love and hugs.

RIP Dick - a bright star shining over us tonight.

Natasha Wise


Millie Paterson
20 March 1930 - 7 January 2016

Truly the most amazing loving Mother and Grandmother sadly passed away Thursday, 7th January 2016. Millie Paterson first started agility 20 plus years ago with her lovely wee sheltie Jess. She was a member of Chippenham Agility Club for many years where she met some wonderful friends.

Millie's love for agility was still present right up to the end. Whilst running a full course became increasingly difficult for her, she continued to train Lizzie weekly and enjoyed watching friend's run her dogs, too.

Grandma will be sorely missed by many.

For anyone that would like to attend the funeral, it will be held at Semington Crematorium, Semington, Trowbridge, Wiltshire BA14 6HL on Thursday 21st January at 11.30am. The family kindly ask if you can all wear something cheerful to reflect the lady she was.

Amy Lawson


Diane Maylam

Some of you may or may not know but unfortunately my mum Dianne Maylam lost her fight with cancer on Wednesday, 30 December. She died peacefully and I was with her to the very end.

Thank you to you all for the years of fun you had with mum at agility. She had a passion for training dogs and very much enjoyed passing on her knowledge and gaining new. Competing with you all was a highlight in her lifetime.

Please keep in touch, I'm sorry to post this but I thought you'd like to know. All our love from myself and my dad David Maylam - both of which part of the team.

Vikki Knight

 
John Leslie
 23 March 1948 - 12 November 2015

It is with great sadness that we have to announce that John Leslie left us for Rainbow Bridge Agility Club Thursday, 12 November. He has born a long fight against a wicked disease with dignity and humour for four years, and his passing leaves a massive gap.

John was the kind of person who put more into agility than he ever took out. As well as his huge contribution to Agilitynet, he worked hard for Trent Park and Watford Agility Clubs, was a kind, compassionate judge and he worked for the Kennel Club in the Activities team, still volunteering for them at events like Crufts and the KCIAF after his official retirement.

He was also an avid chorister, proudly singing at the Royal Albert Hall earlier this year.

Our thoughts are with Ellen and the girls. We will let you know the details of his funeral in due course.

Reunited with his poodle Beau, who went to the Bridge on Christmas Eve last year, and who now graces the top of this page in tribute to a true gentleman.

Rest in peace, John. You are missed.

Much love, Jill & Raine xx

From Ellen Rocco, Annie, Becky and their families + dogs
 We, as a family, would like to thank everyone for all your kind words and heartfelt wishes. John's funeral will be on Tuesday, the 24th of November at 11.00am. It will be held at the St. Marylebone Crematorium (East Finchley, N2 0RZ) followed by a gathering at The Alwyne Castle in Highbury (N1 2LY). The pub is dog friendly! All welcome.

If anyone wishes to leave a mark of respect, instead of flowers, we know he would have preferred donations to St. Joseph's Hospice, where they took such great care of him. We have set up a JustGiving page for him at https://www.justgiving.com/john-s-leslie/  If anyone would like any further information, please feel free to contact Ellen Rocco, Annie Leslie or Becky Dixey.


Hazel Russell-Davis
 Died 2 October 2015

For those who may not have heard on behalf of Nick Russell-Davis very sad to advise that Hazel passed away last Friday morning after a long battle with illness.

Hazel was a well known character around the shows, helping out at most of the shows they went to as she was not able to run the schnauzers Freddie and Sammy herself but had very good runners in Jan and Babs and a few others.

Her funeral there will be a Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate Hazel's life taking place at 2.30pm on Wednesday, 21st October in Shamley Green Parish Church, Church Hill, Shamley Green, Surrey, GU5 0UD. There will have been a family cremation in the morning. No necessity for funeral clothing!

Ron Rawlingson
 Died 31 August 2015

it is with great sadness that we to inform you that Ron Rawlingson has lost his battle with cancer. Ron passed away peacefully during the night at Harrogate hospice and will be greatly missed us all.

Rest in peace, fella. You taught me so much.

Ron Rawlingson's funeral will be held Monday, 7th September, 9.40am at Stonefall Crematorium, Harrogate and then afterwards at Knaresborough Conservative Club. All Welcome, Family flowers only with a collection for St. Michaels Hospice.

Steve Pluves


Tom Greening

The agility world has lost one of its shining stars. Sadly Tom Greening lost his fight against cancer, having battled the disease for the past five years. He passed away peacefully in Katherine House Hospice, Banbury with his family by his side.

Tom will be remembered for his wonderful smile, sparkling eyes and all round love of life. He was one of life's gentlemen, an all round nice guy.

A highly respected judge, he always had a nice comment to say at the end of everyone's round as they left the ring.

Tom had another calling in his life which many people knew about. He played the best pantomime Dame in the whole of Oxfordshire!

Tom's funeral,  is to be held on Tuesday, 18th August at Banbury Crematorium, Hardwick Hill, Southam Road, Banbury OX16 1ST at 2 pm. He will be having a civil ceremony and much of the service has been chosen by Tom himself.  The will be a collection after the service for Katherine House Hospice who were absolutely amazing and cared for Tom during the last two weeks that he spent with them.

For those at DINAS who would like to pay their respect, there will be a minutes silence in honour of Tom in the Main Ring at 2pm on 18 August.


Barbara Pointer
 Died 19 May 2015

It is with absolute devastation that I have to let the dog community know that my mum, Barbara Pointer, passed away yesterday. She was in bed with her Papillions and it seems it was peaceful.

I will keep in touch in regards to the funeral and wake arrangements.

Rosie Pointer

On the 20th May I lost not only my mum but my mentor, my guiding light and my best friend. I know life will never be the same without her, but I know she will live on in me and the dogs. I love her with all my heart, and she will never be forgotten.

Those wishing to come to her funeral the details are as follows: Service at St. Peter & St. Paul's Church, Peasmarsh, which is about a mile from A 268 up Church Lane, on Tuesday, 9th June 2015 at 1.30 p.m. followed by the wake at Flackley Ash Hotel, TN31 6YH. Please allow time for road works and road closures. Those wishing to provide finger food for the buffet these can be left at Flackley Ash before the service.

NO black to be worn and family flowers only please. Donations, if wished, payable to Guide Dogs for the Blind and Cancer Research may be sent c/o J. Perigoe & Son, Dixter Road, Northiam, East Sussex TN31 6LB.


Fran Graham
 Died 23 April 2015

It is with great sadness that we announce that after a long battle with cancer Fran Graham died at 3 o'clock this morning.. Our hearts go out to his wife and children, Gail, Laura and Darren.
With love to them, Rita and Dick

With great sorrow that I have to announce that a long standing member of Hinckley and well known in the Agility World for winning Olympia with his lovely dog Cap that Fran Graham has passed away peacefully at 3.00am this morning. Our thoughts go out to his young family Gail, Laura and Darren
Linda Croxford

From Gail...
 Thanks everyone for your kind words, cards and memories, they have really been a comfort to us. Fran would have loved them. Anyone is welcome to attend Fran's funeral on Tuesday, 12 May at 12pm at Heart of England Crematorium, Eastboro way Nuneaton CV11 6WZ and afterwards at Attleborough Sports Club Marston Lane, Attleborough CV11 4RD. It would be helpful for catering, if you could tell Yvonne if you are coming or go on to the event that has been created in FB.

Please note that it is just family flowers. Donations to LOROS who helped Fran so much would be appreciated. To donate, go direct to their link  or you can send donations via the funeral directors. G Sellars & co.ltd 75 upper Bond Street Hinckley leic LE101RH, payable to LOROS. 


Bob Ratcliffe
 Died 28 March 2015

it is with much sorrow that I write on this very sad day that Bob Ratcliffe of Acecliffe Standard Poodles sadly died at an agility show this weekend. He will be missed by many especially us poodle folk.

He was a real ambassador for the breed and a frequent ABC competitor at Crufts and Olympia. The wonderful Acecliffe Starlight Express (Star) was a sight to behold. The rapport he had with his dogs was wonderful.

Condolences to Wendy Ratcliffe.

For anyone who would like to pay their last respects, his funeral will be at Worthing Crematorium at 3pm on Thursday, 16th April. Family flowers only please.

Juliet Bumstead

From Greg Derrett...
On behalf of everyone at UK Agility we would like to send our sincere condolences to the family of Bob Ratcliffe. Bob sadly collapsed Saturday at the Springtime show and although valiant attempts by the first aid team on site and by paramedics, Bob sadly passed away. Bob has been a member of UK Agility since we started in 2004 as a well known competitor with his Standard Poodles as well as judging at many shows. RIP Bob

Paint It Pink for Sue Schofield

This is for all who knew Sue Schofield - and anyone else who wants to join in. Sue lost her fight against cancer last year so, if you want to, please paint your nails pink on 3rd March in her memory.


Sue Reeves

Sue Reeves lost her battle to cancer on 4 January 2015. Rest in peace and pain-free.

Her funeral will being held on Friday, 16 January at 11.15am at Breakspear Crematorium, Breakspear Road, Ruislip, Middlesex HA4 7SJ. All are welcome. If attending please wear something pink! There is a wake being held at Hayes Working Men's Club after the service. Flowers are for family only but please feel free to make a donation. via Just Giving, in Sue's memory to Cancer Research.

Denis Inskip

Dennis Inskip ran working cocker spaniels and loved his dogs. A very big loss. You will be greatly missed by all at the North Derbyshire DAC. Rest in peace.

Thinking of you and your family.

Everyone at North Derbyshire Dog Agility Club

Remembering Kathy Thompson

As some of you may know my good friend Kathy Thompson passed away on 5th November due to acute myeloid leukaemia. Kath was diagnosed with AML and vowed to beat the disease. Not beating it wasn't an option!

Kath was well known in the agility world having competed for near on 30 years, starting with Bretons all those years ago. She had crossbreeds and then fell in love with Christine Bolton's Lunarlites. Somehow she coped with their craziness! She loved her red and whites for some reason.

She also ventured into breeding Schnauzers, Poodles and her own 'designer breed' gruffalos, which were a mix of the two breeds. Always ready to defend the 'designer crossbreeds,' she was never one to back down when she had a point to make. All her dogs were health tested and she didn't charge the designer prices!

Kathy was larger than life, fun loving and a true friend. Her words of wisdom (!!) will always make me smile! She loved her dogs and cats and they always came first.

She leaves a seven year old son, Joshua and her partner of many years, Ronnie.

The family have not only had to deal and cope with Kathys illness but Ronnie was made redundant not long ago, putting a huge financial pressure on the family.

A few friends have had a chat and decided to set up a Just Giving page to assist with a few quid, either towards the funeral or towards a holiday or to be honest whatever Ronnie wants to do with it. Even if it's a £1, any donation would be hugely appreciated. The agility world is like a big family so it'd be nice to help one of our own.

Sleep tight, Kathy. I'm sure you're fur babies were waiting at the bridge x

Lisa Thompson

For those that may be interested, Kathy's funeral will be taking place on Thursday, 27 November at 13:30 at South Essex Crematorium, Upminster, RM14 2UY. A buffet will also take place after and the Huntsman & Hounds just up the road. In the morning of or day before. can you please let me know if you plan to attend either so I can give Ronnie an idea of numbers please.

If you are sending flowers, please send them to:-

Tender Touch
67 Sun Lane
Gravesend, Kent DA12 5HQ

The fund raising has been amazing, please find the link below if you wish to donate.

Lisa Thompson

Lesley Jeavons

Lesley Jeavon's husband Len would like to let all of her friends in the dog world know that she passed away on the morning of 1 September 2014. She has been unwell for a number of years and, although she showed signs of remission, she has been very poorly for the last 2 - 3 weeks.

She has been in agility for many years and has been an extremely popular competitor and judge.

There will be a two minute silence at Tenterden Magic on the weekend of 6- September 2014 in memory of Lesley who was always a great supporter of the show.

Andy Longley


Maria Bailey

I have some very sad news from High Lane Dog Training Club. Maria Bailey, one of our members, has tragically died from a brain haemorrhage on Saturday, 12 July.

You only had to meet Maria once to remember her, and we will never forget her. She loved her dogs and agility. Many of you will know Maria from our ring parties. She always encouraged competitors and always had a big cheer for a good round especially if it was a GSD.

Andy Gillibrand


Louise Angus
 Died  20 March 2014

Sadly my lovely friend Louise Angus lost her fight against cancer at 5.15am this morning.

Louise came into our lives when Alex brought her to our club as he wanted her to find a good club to train her JRT Jill. Louise became part of the SmartPaws family and one of our trainers. Jill got to Champ with Louise - fantastic handling.

Then there was Henry so different to Jill - a big Boxer X whom Louise handled like a dream and got to Grade 5.

Then this dreaded illness got back hold of her. She always had a smile and a laugh. She was an inspiration and a friend.

Rest in piece Louise, The whole of SmartPaws will be mourning your loss. You will never be forgotten

Jackie Gardner


Sue Schofield
 Died 13 February 2014

It is with great sadness that I have to inform you that Sue Schofield died at 21:00 this evening after losing her battle with cancer. She has been fighting for over two years since the knowledge that she had breast cancer which went on to develop further into lung and brain cancers with devastating speed. Having fought bravely through various treatments and remaining the life and soul of the party that Sue always was throughout, she decided today that enough was enough and died in the Canterbury Hospice pain free and in her own time.

I was present with my daughter whom Sue adored along with her true friend Caroline and her brother Tony. I don't really know what more to say. Sue's photos say it all. Please remember her happy smiling face and know that she is now in a better place.

I will pass on further details as arrangements are made. Thank you and God Bless.

Funeral details

Following Sue's very sad death on Thursday, 13 February, I am now able to provide details of Sue's funeral. It will take place at Barham Crematorium, Canterbury Road, (A260), Barham, nr Canterbury, Kent CT4 6QU, on Monday, 3 March 2014, at 11:20am.

We have requested flowers from only close family, but please don't feel you can't send flowers if you wish. Any flowers should either be sent to Barham Crematorium as above, or be with the Funeral Directors C.W.Lyons & Son, 51-53 Oxford Street, Whitstable, Kent CT5 1DB, clearly labelled,  by 09:00 on the 3 March,

As an alternative, Tony and I would like to offer the opportunity, rather than sending flowers, to donate to either Cancer Research, or to The Pilgrim's Hospice in Canterbury. Pilgrims was absolutely wonderful for the short time Sue was there and provided a lovely environment with the most caring and attentive staff for her to spend her last day with dignity. Any donations will be gratefully received, logged and collated for us by C.W.Lyons & Sons, 51-53 Oxford Street, Whitstable, Kent CT5 1DB. Please be sure to be specific that the donation is in relation to Sue Schofield.

As you will all know, Sue was not always one to conform to tradition and would not have expected dark doom and gloom on her day of departure. Therefore please feel free to wear whatever bright, glitzy, glamorous, colourful, sparkly (her specific word), shiney, attire you will feel most comfortable in, in the certain knowledge that she would whole-heartedly endorse it.

Following Sue's funeral, we would like to invite you to an informal gathering to mingle and chat at The Duke of Cumberland, The Street, Barham, Canterbury, Kent,CT4 6NY where light buffet refreshment will be available and an opportunity to share in a toast to Sue and her wonderful life.

While I know it may be difficult, it would be really helpful if we could gauge roughly how many friends might attend the Duke of Cumberland after the funeral service, merely to allow them to provide adequate staff to service our needs, so if you could, between now and then, just stick your hand up and say count me/us in, that would be great.

Please feel free to share this with any of Sue's friends you think I may not have access to through Facebook or otherwise, as this worked so incredibly well last week.  And iIf you have any questions at all, please feel free to ask at any time.

Andy Schofield

From Nancy Hudson... Let's paint the agility world pink
Sue's funeral is on 3 March which many of you will already know. It is her family's wish that people wear something bright and colourful for the occasion as they know that's what Sue would have wanted. Nothing dull or boring, glitz and glamour and lots of pink is what she would have wanted. I thought pink painted nails would be very appropriate, this is mainly because Sue loved her fancy nail polishes and manicures. She also knew very well of my phobia about long painted nails and used to love winding me up about it, so I thought if I could breathe deeply and paint my nails (not sure I can cope with growing them long) then it would put a big smile on her face as she looks down on the day.

How about everyone - okay maybe not you Alex -paint their nails pink for the day and even those who can't come along do the same and change their Facebook profile with a picture of beautiful pink nails just for that one day on Monday 3rd March. In memory of a beautiful sparkling person who is now shining down from above. Please share this.

From Amanda Pigg...
Red wine, a smile and lots of laughter.

Sue you fought with courage and a spirit that I can only admire. Your laughter, infectious. Your smile, huge. Your wine glass, always being refilled! Your friendship, unforgettable.

Sleep well xxx


 Photo: Ian Watts
Howard Weston
 Died 7 January 2014

I post this terribly sad news on behalf of Top Dog Agility, Otley DTS, Wakefield Agility and the many clubs that Howard Weston was associated with... It is with great sadness that Howard has lost his long fight this morning with a cruel illness that he courageously battled.

He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. The agility world has lost one of the good guys - and all who knew him will agree. He was sincere and genuine and always there to help, if needed.

Howard was seen regularly at many many shows over many years. He never just competed but was always there in a helping role giving his time selflessly. He was a gentleman and a friend to many.

Today Agility has lost a true shining star. Rest In Peace Howard> You will be sorely missed by all who knew you.

Sincere condolences to his wife, Alex.

Further to my sad post about Howard Weston passing away....
I would like to inform people that his funeral will take place on Friday, 31 January at 2.20pm. If anyone is wishing to attend could they PLEASE either get in touch with me via email or Facebook so we can get some idea of numbers. The address is Lawnswood Crematorium, Otley Road, Adel, Leeds LS16 6AH. Thank you.

Christine Brown

Margaret Bill with Eleanor Kay-Laing with Skye
 Margaret Bill
 Died 23 December 2013

The members of Weardale DAC are deeply saddened to have to inform you of the loss of our long-standing member and friend, Margaret Bill, who died on Monday, 23 December after a long illness. Margaret gave very generously of her time to Weardale DAC and before that Otley DTS, being club secretary of both clubs, taking training and being heavily involved in the organisation of the club shows.

She started doing agility 1996, initially competing with her Welsh Springers, then getting her collies Jess, Zoe, Ghillie and Sky. Zoe took Margaret to the Olympia Senior Semi-finals - an achievement of which she was rightly very proud, especially as she was in her 70s. She was highly bemused by Graham Partridge who, having previously asked if was all right, announced to the crowd that even people in their 70s could do agility. Margaret never let her age stop her from doing anything.

She battled long and hard against her failing health, but when Margaret's illness meant she was no longer able to compete in agility, she still came to Club and enjoyed watching fellow member, Eleanor Laing-Kay run Sky. They proved a formidable team, with Margaret's foundation training meaning the new partnership qualified for the Novice Olympia Semis last year. Margaret thoroughly enjoyed her trip to Olympia and took massive pride in Sky's achievements with Eleanor, resulting in Grade 7 status at the end of this year.

Margaret is going to be very greatly missed by Weardale DAC and by the very many friends she made in the agility world and our thoughts are with her family and friends at this very sad time.

Jen Lewis


 Pat Scott
 Died 4 November 2013, aged 82

You couldn't tell Pat's story without giving a history of agility in Scotland and conversely, a history of Scottish agility would have to include much about Pat, so great was her contribution.

I first met Pat and her daughter Caroline during 1983/4 when the Scottish Rottweiler Club hired my local riding school to train this new sport of dog agility. I with my dog-home special, Pat and Caroline with their beautiful Beardies were among the 'other breeds' there to help pay the hire fee. I wonder how many people know that the Rotties were among the first to start agility in Scotland?

Fast forward to 1987. I had been off doing other things while Pat and Caroline were making frequent trips to compete in shows south of the border. At that time, as far as I recollect, only one Scottish club was holding shows. To Pat, there were no problems, only solutions. She rallied the support she needed to set up the Kingdom of Fife Dog Agility Club, having first collared the Kennel Club official who thought the term 'Kingdom' was inappropriate. Pat put him right and the rest is history!

In order to give Scots more home competition, she got the Bearded Collie Club and the SKC to put on agility shows, both of which are still part of the show circuit. She also secured a qualifier for the Crufts Team event – at that time, the most prestigious agility event.  Critics of SKC might like to consider the show's origins!

The show people had their dog of the year competition, so why not have a top Scottish Agility Dog? It was Pat who set up the early invitation contests which evolved into the highly competitive event we know today.

She felt we should have a big final in Scotland and set about finding sponsorship and a venue. Thus the Highland Agility competition was born with its final at Scone Palace game fair.

In 1992, Pats contribution to agility was recognised with the award of Barbour Agility Personality of the Year, voted for by members of The Agility Club.

But Pat was about more than just agility. Her personal motivation was to give her dogs an all round experience and so, as a competitor, she did a little with a lot of dogs rather than focussing competitively on any one. As a supporter of Juniors, she often lent her dogs to the youngsters in the club.

Showing, obedience and breeding were also in the repertoire, and she was actively involved in Beardie rescue. Dog control agencies were primed to contact her if they came across anything with a beardie in it. One young police officer assured her that the poor little thing left tied to a lamp-post had beardie in it. Well, Bonnie was probably more Miniature Poodle crossed with mongrel, but she found her forever home with Pat and, like the rest, was introduced to agility!

It's been a few years since Pat was seen round the shows. The majority of today's competitors won't know whom I'm talking about, but trust me, Scottish agility owes a lot to this lady. In all her endeavours, Pat was hugely supported by her husband Alex to whom we extend our kindest thoughts and sympathies – and also to their daughter, sons and grandchildren.

Anne McBride


Andrew Brian Wilson
9 September 1975 – 26 September 2013

The agility world lost a kind gentle man when it lost Andrew. When he was born, he and his mother Jackie had a difficult time and it was felt that he wouldn't make it. Thankfully this wasn't the case although he suffered from severe epilepsy.

Andrew had a wonderful family who ensured he lived his life to the full. He loved horses and competed with them and his sisters Julie and Karen. He also loved steam trains - his favourite was the Flying Scotsman - holidays with his family and, of course, he loved dogs, his family always having them.

Andrew's first dog of his own was Sindy, a small crossbreed that he rescued when out with his Grandad when it was clear she was lost. It was with Sindy that he began his love affair with agility with Wilton Club. Sadly Sindy was to also suffer from epilepsy and she died two years later.

Three weeks later he was offered another rescue – a GSD/border collie X puppy out of a litter left to die in an empty house near Leeds but thankfully were found. Andrew took one of the pups and called her Trudy. She and Andrew were inseparable and enjoyed their agility – qualifying for the Pairs Agility final with Jenny (Hare) Cannings and the team final with Wilton Club at Stoneleigh and individual finals at the Wirral.  Andrew also did agility with Tuffy, another rescue (collie/basset hound) who progressed to G7.

Andrew loved attending Hare 'n Hounds shows and was well known and admired for his determination to do well, but more importantly his love of his dogs however well they did.  This love was illustrated when Trudy went for help after Andrew suffered a fit whilst out on his own on the family farm thus saving his life. She remained by his side throughout her life.

 Penny Garner-Carpenter


Norma Thompson

It is with deep sadness that I have to advise our beloved friend, trainer and long time club member Norma Thompson, sadly passed away on Saturday 7th September.

Norma had fought a long and valiant battle against various forms of invasive cancers but refused to let it rule her life and until quite recently was still an active member of the committee. In fact during several hospital stays she was still taking names of new members from her hospital bed.

For many years Norma was a stalwart of the club, in earlier years when we did 1 day shows Norma organised all of the catering, providing the hot meals for the judges and the packed lunches for the ring parties. Her family were press ganged into being cooks, sandwich fillers and washer uppers. I think her family rebelled when we moved onto 2 day shows. At our last 2 day show despite being confined to a wheelchair, there was Norma in the secretary's tent, helping, advising and bringing order to chaos.

Norma's funeral will be on 18th October at 12 o,clock at Charing Crematorium, and if you cannot be there can you please stop at that time and shout, tunnel, tunnel, over, over, go on, well done, good girl..... just like our Norma did.

Carol MacLean – Chairman Stour Valley Agility Club


Brian Hazell

For those who will not have heard elsewhere, Brian Hazell lost his battle with cancer, passing away in the early hours of this morning. He and his wife Joyce were stalwarts of many an agility show, and the agility world loses much with his passing. Our thoughts are with Joyce, daughter Kirsty and all the family.

Jill Spurr on FB


 RIP Caroline Whiles

You will be sadly missed by all that knew you and I will miss the laughs we had walking the Medium courses. So sad you couldn't achieve your wish to go to Crufts, having qualified for the Novice Cup next year but I am sure you'll be watching in spirit.

They take a piece of your heart, as you likewise keep a piece of theirs.. Never ever to be forgotten, and with us forever. Our very dear friend Caroline, we will treasure the swop. Thanks for being our friend.

In celebration of Caroline's life, there will be a service on the Thursday, 17 Jan at 2.15pm at All Saints Church, Grange Road,  Eastbourne BN21 4HE. Everyone welcome. Followed by a committal for immediate family only and then by a wake at 3.30pm. where everyone will be welcome. Venue to be confirmed.

Sue Culmer

From Nigel, Sarah, Sam & Meg
 You touched the heart of many and will be greatly missed at shows. We will miss you at the trade stand pinching the bottle water and Barney as company while you walk the course with Sam and many good friends. It was an honour and privilege to have known and you and will never be forgotten, so when you see us smiling you know you are in our thoughts. Peace be with you. (06/01/13)