Curly Coated Retriever from Coalville wins Gamekeepers Classes at Crufts 2020

A Curly Coated Retriever from Coalville in Leicestershire, owned by Dawn Hall and handler Brian Twigger, has been declared the overall winner of the Gamekeepers Classes at Crufts 2020.

Kandrelli Black Winged Kite over Ghilgrange, known at home as Twister, is nearly five years old and triumphed in the category which is confined to working gundogs. Every dog is judged to the breed standard but major consideration is given to their appearance and conformation as a working gundog. These requirements make the classes totally unique.

BASC is responsible for the organisation and running of the Gamekeepers ring at Crufts and these classes, sponsored by Skinner’s Field & Trial, are always popular with the general public and exhibitors alike.

Ninety-seven gundogs were in contention for the coveted title with Brian and Twister, who is a blood-donor dog at his local veterinary surgery, emerging the victors under working gundog expert Wilson Young.

Brian said: “It is great to win this award. Twister has won his class before but never the whole category. Curly Coated Retrievers are a Kennel Club Vulnerable British Breed and were among the breeds shown at the very first Crufts. In fact, these and Flat Coats were the original retriever breeds, so it is such a good thing to have Curly Coats on the stage like this and representing the keepers is a bonus.”