Tricymoedd Snipes Whisper, a Labrador Retriever from Powys, Wales, known at home as Clyde, owned by Gamekeeper Harry Lewis and Amber Williams and handled by Amber Williams, was declared the overall winner of the BASC Gamekeepers' Classes on Sunday 8 March at Crufts 2026.
Clyde is four years old and triumphed in the final, which is confined to working gundogs owned by bona fide Gamekeepers. Judged this year by Raymond Holt, 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.
Clyde was awarded ‘Best in Gamekeeper Classes’ out of the six class winners who made it through to the main arena judging. Clyde and Amber were awarded the Northesk Memorial Trophy which was presented this year by Caroline Bedell, President 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.
Ben Skinner, Sales Director, Skinner’s Field and Trial said: “Huge congratulations to Amber and Clyde on a fantastic achievement in winning the Gamekeepers’ Classes at Crufts. These classes are a true celebration of the working gundog - combining correct breed type, sound conformation and genuine working ability and Clyde is a wonderful example of that balance
At Skinner’s, we are proud to support the Gamekeepers’ Classes alongside BASC, recognising the dedication of working dog owners and the vital role these dogs play in the field.”
Crufts took place from 5 – 8 March 2026 at the NEC, Birmingham. For more information and results from the show, visit crufts.org.uk.