Flat Coated Retriever from Devon wins Gamekeepers’ Classes at Crufts

Ronevorg Dark Angel at Lussac, a Flat Coated Retriever from Crediton, Devon, known at home as Barney, owned by Gamekeeper Sue May, and handled by Helen Ford, was declared the overall winner of the BASC Gamekeepers’ Classes on Saturday 8 March at Crufts 2025.

Barney is four years old and triumphed in the final, which is confined to working gundogs owned by bona fide Gamekeepers. Judged this year by Angie Cooper, every dog is judged to the breed standard, with consideration to their appearance and conformation, but all dogs in the competition must be working gundogs. These requirements make the classes totally unique.

Barney was awarded ‘Best in Gamekeeper Classes’ out of the six class winners who made it through to the main arena judging. Barney and Helen were awarded the Northesk Memorial Trophy which was presented this year by Caroline Bedell, Deputy CEO of BASC and Ben Skinner, of Skinner’s Field & Trial.

The British Association for Shooting and Conservation (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.

Sue said: “Barney’s done so well today, he won his breed class as well. I’m over the moon! He knows when he’s done well, he shows off and he shows to the crowd. I’ve had an absolutely fantastic day.”

Crufts took place from 6 – 9 March 2025 at the NEC, Birmingham. For more information and results from the show, visit Crufts website.