AS WE go to press, Our Dogs can exclusively reveal that Blackpool championship Show is in discussion with the popular Kortrijk Show in Belgium with a view to entering into a twinning arrangement for the benefit of both societies.

Twinning is already an established procedure between towns and cities all over the world and this arrangement between two major championship shows can only be seen as a great opportunity to bring the same benefits to the world of show dogs.

At a time when the Kennel Club has just called for a forum to discuss ideas for the development of the dog game in the 21st century, both societies have to be congratulated for their forward thinking. Kortrijk secretary Joel Vanderberghe said “our committee is delighted to have such a unique co-operation between our two shows”.

Blackpool of course takes place in June, whereas Kortrijk is in November so the opportunity for a cultural exchange is easy as it will not affect the running or build up to either show. Blackpool Secretary Jack Bennett and Chairman Hilda Parkinson agreed, saying, “We look forward to welcoming our friends from Europe.

There are obvious advantages for both Societies”, whilst President Vince Hogan commented, “The committee at Kortrijk has a very good attitude to developing links with the UK.

Only last November, they welcomed a huge party of UK exhibitors on the Coaches to Shows trip with John Wright and Jackie Hurley’s handling competition.

The dog scene is changing and I am delighted that the committee at Blackpool has approved this move forward”.

The two committees will look to develop ideas in the future but in the first instance it is hoped to welcome delegations to each show during 2002.