9th January 2026

One of the first events for 2026 is the well-attended East Anglian Collie Association, Collie of the Year. Often attended, not for the possible wins but also the superb carvery, Lisa Pettitt’s difficult quiz and the friendly camaraderie of the full day of like-minded exhibitors.
Held, as all events are, at Littleport, EACA, under the guidance of Miranda & Co receved an excellent entry of both roughs and smooths, with only those who were snowed in or out of coat missing which left about 30 plus enjoying the meal
One bonus for EACA is that Megan Gatt kindly donated a portrait voucher for each and every qualifier which will be much appreciated by all
The judges are kept “under wraps” until the day and they were Pauline Luxmore-Ball as the Non-Breed Specialist and Bev White for the breed specialist, both of whom were sworn to secrecy over their appointments and, according to both ladies really enjoyed the day.
The day commenced with Veterans, 8 were on parade with the overall winner being Marianne Benton and her Smooth Ch Oakestelle Artemis ShEx VW with the runner up going to Linda Philpin and her Sassari Snow Shimmer for Tudorlyn JW.
Now for the puppies and a good entry, up on previous years,  of 18, and coming out on top was the smooth lady Coldelee Busy Bein’ Fabulous for Debs Jerrett with Jo Williams and Morse (Mejola Endeavour) taking runner-up spot. Other finalists included: Mejola Endeavour and Wicani Bellissima Rosschell.
The adult section is divided between males and females, and finalists included, Coldeleee Eternal Sunshine; Ch Mejola Top Gun; Bel Ch Takhisis Lady of Mystery;Ch Brackenhaye Queen of Hearts for Oakestelle; Demelewis Silver Spur of Corydon and Brilyn Make |Me Smile at Garbh
The overall winner, improving on his runner-up spot of last year, was Maverick, Ch Mejola Top Gun JW and he was followed home by  Coldelee Eternal Sunshine.
Not content with winning Adult, Maverick then went on to take the overall title and, along with sister-in-law, Aileen, Di Collino and Wilma Vainionpaa over from Finland, Jo Williams also won the Quiz – what a lovely day for all involved.
This weekend sees, weather permitting the next event which is British Collie Rough of the Year Event, again with a very good entry of both Roughs and Smooths, and a report on this will follow later.

Carole Smedley
(Antoc)

email: ca.antoc@btinternet.com