The Beginning
Although as our name suggests we are based in the South
East of England, our catchment area being Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Hampshire, membership
is widespread throughout both the United Kingdom and overseas.
The Club was the brainchild of Reg and Mary Barton and
Robin Bradley who coincidentally had realised there was a lack of Dobermann breed shows
and other associated activities held south of the River Thames. These three enthusiasts
pooled their knowledge and in the summer of 1985 extended an invitation to anyone
interested in the formation of a new club to attend a meeting. With the immense response
received, they were left in no doubt that they should put the wheels in motion. Invitation
for founder memberships were offered and at a second meeting in September a committee was
selected. Recognition by the Kennel Club was sought and due to overwhelming support from
fellow clubs and canine societies registration was given in May 1986.
Early Days
Now that the Club was active plans could go ahead to
stage the first open show. This was held at the Leatherhead Leisure Centre in August 1987.
The Judge, Len Charles, a man of vast experience from the era of Fred and Julia Curnow,
attracted an entry in excess of 250. This was to prove to be the first of many successes.
February 9th, 1992 was a day to remember. The Club had
received championship status and could now award challenge certificates. The judges for
this important first championship show were from the United States, Dr. May Jacobson from
Wayland, Massachusetts and Mrs. Mary M Rodgers from California who between them drew an
entry well in excess of 400.
At the time of the show Dr. Jacobson had been a Dobermann
enthusiast for 27 years. She had bred or owned the sires of about 30 American champions,
among them a multi all-breed BIS winner. Her interests have extended to working dogs with
participation in schutzhund. She had judged in Europe, Asia and South America as well as
many Dobermann specialty shows throughout the USA, served as Secretary to the Dobermann
Pinscher Club of America and had been on the Board of Directors for four years.
Mrs. Mary M Rodgers began breeding and showing Dobermanns
in 1962 and by 1992 had bred 81 American champions under the Marienburg affix. Ch.
Marienburg Sun Hawk sired 85 American champions, an all time record in the USA. She has
won many other top awards and judged numerous specialty shows.
Now
Since these early days the Club has gone from strength to
strength and our shows continue to set the standard for others to follow. This is due to
the professional approach and general stability of the committee and their hard work is
reflected in an extremely healthy bank balance.
Two shows are held each year, a Championship show in
February and an open show in August.
A dinner/disco is held every December to enable non
showing members to meet and feel a part of the Club. This event is quite often over
subscribed since we try to keep both the venue size and price down so it's well worth
booking a place early!
A Members Guide containing useful information is also
issued to members annually.