There are currently two competition classes, the first from 7.30pm until 8.30pm, which is for Beginners, looking forward to entering Limit shows and progressing. Dogs working Novice and above, train from 8.30pm until 9.30pm.

The 7.30 class is taken by Linda Fuller. Linda has been instructing for 6 years, and is also a competition obedience judge, and a successful competitor.

The 8.30 class is taken on a rota basis by Maureen Shelley, Janice Garlick, Jennie Heard, and Anne Mepstead, all of whom are seasoned handlers, trainers and judges, Maureen Shelley (pictured right) having judged the Regional Obedience competition at Crufts in 1998, and having qualified two German Shepherds and one Border Collie for ticket classes.

Our members and their dogs over the years have won many awards, the most notable being Irene Stapley with her Working Sheepdog Glen (Obedience Champion Domino Double).  In 1983 Glen became 'Pro-Dog of the Year' and represented the South of England in the Crufts Regional competition. In 1984 he gained 3rd place in the Crufts Obedience Championships, and topped that in 1985 by winning the Crufts Obedience Championships after a nail-biting run-off.

Another of our club members, Janice Garlick, competed in the Crufts Obedience Championships in 1985 with her Border Collie bitch Cassie (Sealight Andromeda) having won a ticket in 1984.

Ditton DTC has had many young handlers over the years with several youngsters becoming very successful dog trainers. Adrian Soper won the Kennel Club Junior Organisation Advanced Obedience Class at Crufts 1992 with his Collie Danny (Runfold Myth) whilst Joanne Napper was a regular competitor in the Crufts Junior Agility competitions.

Ditton DTC currently has members competing in all classes from Pre-Beginners to Test 'C', last year winning over 70 rosettes between them.    The club promotes titbit and play training in all classes, and encourages responsible dog ownership.

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Heelwork

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