Once again the Midland Area Working Test on 6th April 2024 was held at Byrds Retreat, Harvington, Worcestershire by kind permission Bob and Sonia Byrd, organised by Rachel Birch and generously sponsored by Skinners Pet Food Ltd. The judges were Laura Marsh, Dawn Scott, Lucy Mixture and Jane Gould.
Although extremely wet underfoot for the competitors the conditions were perfect for the dogs. The NDNH and Novice tests were run in the morning over the same ground but with some shorter distances for the NDNH. There were 2 NDNH competing and after two withdrawals 11 Novices.
The 4 tests compiled of a mark over a jump followed by a blind, a mark into the wood with a blind down a track, a 2 dog walk up and a hunting exercise.
At the end of the morning the Larksburn Cup a new trophy kindly donated by Sarah Young for the winner of NDNH was not awarded.
In Novice first place was not presented.
2nd place was awarded to Gary Ellison with Ollersett Shimmering Nymph who received the Monica Woods Memorial Trophy.
Judges choice the Pallingforth Salver went to Sarah Young with Waverton I Wish I Could Fly at Larksburn.
After lunch, a field of 7 Open dogs undertook similar test albeit with the distances extended and blinds added to the walk up.
At the end of the afternoon there was a clear winner.
1st place Andy Sweeney with Maddistream Black Powder of Wolfthistle. Andy was also awarded Judges choice the Vortex cup.
CoM Anne Kitching with Selloana Callisto Nymp