It was with great sadness that we read in the January edition of Koira (Finland) of the death of Raija Järvinen at the age of 55. wife of the well known all rounder Kari Jarvinen, who is a well known face at many UK shows.

Raija was also deeply involved in all areas of dogdom, as a handler, breeder, judge, and trimming expert. She was interested in a number of breeds, but her favourite was undoubtedly the Scottish Terrier. She bred over 50 Finnish Champions in various breeds, together with many winners in other countries around the world. She was a founder member of many dog shows, including Finland’s ‘Dog of the Year’ competition. She judged Terrier, Toy and Gundogs both at home and abroad, and also published a book on trimming and grooming, which sold out very quickly.

She will be sorely missed, and we send our condolences to her husband Kari, her twin sons, and her grandchildren.