A Royal Garden Party

We are absolutely delighted to have The Princess Royal as President

of the Working Clumber Spaniel Society. She is so much more than a

figurehead - her genuine enthusiasm, loyal support and

wholehearted commitment to the Society shine through in everything

she does, and we are truly fortunate to have her as our President.

As the proud owner of two Clumber Spaniels herself, she has a real and

enduring understanding of the breed. Whilst attending a Retriever event

She was overheard praising the Clumber nose! She has also bred her

own Clumber Spaniels, with many of us lucky enough to have her

breeding in our lines. It is always a pleasure to see the Princess working

her dogs as part of the picking-up team on her shoot at Gatcombe Park,

where I go beating, and her obvious skill, knowledge and affection for

the breed are always a joy to witness.

In recent years, she has generously allowed us to hold two anniversary

events and two Working Tests, support which has meant so much to the

Society. This year, she also took the time to watch some of the dogs

working and to present the awards. Her conversations with the award

winners and judges made it clear just how knowledgeable, interested

and genuinely engaged she is with working dogs.

The Princess Royal has also kindly invited members of the Society to

attend a Royal Garden Party. This year, Denise and I, along with

Barbara and Ben, were privileged to receive an invitation. We arrived at

Buckingham Palace in our finest attire and enjoyed a delightful afternoon

tea in the beautiful palace grounds. We also had the wonderful honour of

seeing the King and Queen, as well as the Duke and Duchess of

Gloucester.

The weather was kind, the setting was magnificent, and we all had a

truly special day. It was, quite simply, a memorable and treasured

occasion.

By Gary Barstow