It is with sadness that I write of the passing of Dr Ken Linacre on Wednesday 17 February. Ken was an Honarary lifetime member of the CWCA and for many years was its chairman, leading the Association so successfully during his period of office, writes Peter Clifton.

Ken was one of the most respected judges in the breed world wide, always drawing excellent entries. His total honesty and knowledge made him the one judge that every one valued a win under.

In 2001, a special presentation to Ken was made at the banquet of the 75th Anniversary Championship Show of the Cardigan Welsh Corgi Association. Ken received a standing ovation when he was presented with a unique, specially made bronze Cardigan statue, with the inscription on the plinth reading, "Presented by the CWCA to Dr Ken Linacre in appreciation of his service to the breed world wide". This showed the great respect that all held for him.

While Ken always played down the part that he played in the work on PRA in the breed, it was recognised by all that, without his knowledge, connections, and most of all his remarkable leadership, we today would not have had the DNA test that is available to the breed.
Another of Ken’s great interests was the breed archives. He started these many years ago and as a result was always available to offer help to anyone who asked, as very many did. I doubt that anyone knew pedigrees better.

Ken also did many writings on the breed and its history and these are well recorded in the CWCA handbooks and book of champions. Ken was also responsible for the Cardigan skeleton, named Mr Bones, that has been seen at many education events over 40 years, even accompanying Ken and Margaret on their trip to the American National some years back.

A true gentleman, a friend to all, who will be truly missed.

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