Born in 1965 I was raised with Griffons throughout my childhood alongside Bostons and Boxers. My Mum had a black rescue Griffon before I was born and then another rescue a red rough Rupert joined us . Rupert was a firm protector of us as children and would bite my fathers knees whenever we were screaming with delight playing wheel barrow races. Rupert was joined by a " hairy smooth" called Coco.
As a teenager Babs a red smooth joined our family and had a litter of black Griffons by Ch Krandon Storm Warning. Hence my love of the black griffon started being owned at 14 by a nervous black smooth called Moddey. We challenged many a judge at scent level obedience to find suitable articles to pick up.
I undertook my nurse training at University College London in 1983 and am still nursing today as a Respiratory Specialist Nurse. I married my husband Richard ( who had never been exposed to pets poor soul ) in 1991 and was given my first Griffon Snooker ( a black rough ) as a wedding present from my Mum ( Bajalon griffons). We now have 2 grown sons Matthew and Aaron and a menagerie of pets including a pack of Griffons, 1 lurcher, 1 Affenpinscher ( who definitely thinks he is the boss) fish , chickens and finches which keep me permanently busy.
I was passed to award CC’s in the breed in 2020, unfortunately this was delayed due to covid until 2022. Several appointments have followed.
I have been fortunate enough to critique write for several judges abroad giving me a birds eye view of our breed up close and personal. A fabulous learning experience. I am now a mentor for the breed. Judging the Czech Griffon Speciality in May 2022 was a special occasion. "Since i didnt know anyone or their dogs" it was an opportunity to relax and enjoy the occasion. My BIS was awarded to " Puss in Boots" a lovely black and tan smooth who i now know is a multi show winner ( oh the joy of being unaware of who has done what previously).
I have judged and shown abroad, with my Griffons doing well winning BOB Griffon Belge on several occasions . Fagan " Debmar the joker at Stormjac" became a Nederland Champion . I have owned all of the colours in both coats but my passion remains the black rough.
My first litter was born in 2000 under my STORMJAC affix and I am dedicated to breeding Griffon belge/ black. My first UK Champion " Flirt" CH Flirt alert unlimited at Stormjac came home from Norway. My first home bred champion " Stormjac Spocktacular nite" - still looks fabulous coming into veteran.
I am forever grateful to all my friends and family who have supported and encouraged me in this journey of " everything Griffon" and opened my eyes to a bigger Griffon world.
As a Breed specialist judge I believe you are judging the dog on that day , not their previous successes or who owns it. I am truly honoured to have been asked to judge Griffon Bruxellois and Griffon Belge and look forward to meeting you all on the day.
