Merrydobe Dobermanns arrived very quietly in 1983, with the acquisition of our first Dobermann – Ceasar – who was bought in as a pet, but which, we were soon persuaded to show him and the rest is history.

Unfortunately, although Ceasar qualified for Crufts, he was unable to have his moment of glory as he died quite suddenly with Myoll Luekemia.

While attending Open and Championship shows, I made the acquaintance of the Crossridge Partnership of Margaret and John, and eventually purchased Cleo (Crossridge Lady Madonna), so I was really well and truly hooked.

As time progressed, I became friends with all the Crossridge associates, especially Avril who owned Cross ridge the Jazzman, and Sue Day, who became my handler for Dolly while I was incapacitated.

Through Avril, I met Jean, who became one of my closest friend and whose Show career I have supported and followed avidly, accumulating with the purchase of my boy Jazz, Swyndwr Tabasco.

After my husband died, I acquired Dolly – Ebrill Dolly Mixture – from Avril and we have had a really great two years.

I am now in my 21st year of showing, and although I may not have achieved the greatest heights in the Show Ring, we have had our special moments with all our dogs, but most importantly I have made friendships that have passed the test of time, and I have had the undying devotion of 6 very special Dobermanns.