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End of an era as Terry Thorn steps down



Terry ThornOUR DOGS was sorry to learn that top allrounder and Crufts committee chairman Terry Thorn has retired from judging.

A Kennel Club press release issued last said, -

‘It is with regret we announce that, due to continued health problems, Terry Thorn has decieded to stand down as chairman of Crufts. The Crufts Sub-Committee has, however, invited him to assume the role of vice chairman and this he has agreed to do.

‘The election of a successor has taken place, and we are pleased to announce that, Eric Smethurst, the previous Vice-Chairman, has become chairman of Crufts committee.

‘Ronnie Irving, chairman of the Kennel Club, said, “ I am sure that all who know Terry will appreciate the invaluable contribution he has made, and i hope will continue to make, to the success of Crufts for over forty years. His decision typifies his dedication to Crufts and his wish to ensure continuity in the organisation of the show to which he is so committed.

Eric Smethurst‘Eric Smethurst has also served Crufts for many years, working alongside Terry both as a committiee member and latterly as vice-chairman and, with his appointment, he takes with him the support of both the Crufts Sub-Committee and the Crufts Management Team.

‘We all wsh Terry well and hope that his health will improve”

In a letter to OUR DOGS Terry Thorn says that, ‘Following a series of radiotherapy treatments followed by a course of chemotherapy he is now in remission, but is not in health that would enable him to complete his judging programme that stretches forward to 2013’. He apologised for the inconvenience that this decision will cause, but considered it to be the fairest way forward. He sends his thanks to all who supported him since he first started judging in 1963. He is extremely pleased to have been approved by the KC to award CCs to all breeds that qualify for them.

Terry hopes to meet his many friends around the ringside at some shows later in the year.