PRIVATE R.J.HUMPHREYS RLC

On the 14th May 1998 on his 17th birthday, Robert Humphreys of Eastbank Hotel passed his medical and fitness tests in Penicuik, Edinburgh to enter the Army.  On the 21st May he swore his oath of alliegance at Elgin and started his training on 25th May at Bassingbourn Barracks, Royston, Herts.   Sixteen weeks later Robert was awarded "top Crackshot" of his troop at his Pass Out Parade on 25th September.
He was then transferred to Blackdown, Camberley where he passed his theory and practical driving tests with a high recommended pass and a suggestion for staff officer chauffeuring.  First he had to complete his Night Driving, Heavy Goods, Motor Bike and Radio Operating Courses at Leonsfield, Yorkshire.
Robert says he loves the life - Good money and great friends with career and companionship, and a chance to travel and see the world.

FROM SEAFIELD ARMS TO CRUFTS

Last month we took Soloman our Hungarian Komondor to his first show, the Working Dogs of Scotland Championship show held at Ingleston and much to our surprise and great delight he not only won his class but went on to win Best A.V. N. S. C. (any variety not separately classified) this has qualified him to enter Crufts  1999.

We have had Soloman for three years now. Robert saw a picture in a dog book and decided that this was the breed for him.  Eventually we got on the waiting list and two years later travelled a round trip of one thousand miles to pick up our puppy, thankfully we did not have such a long trip to collect CHAOS! As the breed seems to be gaining in popularity so its numbers are increasing and thankfully there is no longer a waiting list.

Komondors were originally used as livestock guardians to live out on the hills with the flock and to defend them from all predators including wolves and bears.  The most striking thing about the breed apart from its imposing size is perhaps the unusual coat which hangs in tassel like cords is felty to the touch and aloways white.
At present there are approximately 75 Komodors in the U.K. and surprisingly few (approx 3000) in their native Hungary wo even in their home country they are uncommon. 

During the second world war the Nazis were responsible for the near destruction of the breed as they had to kill the dogs to enable the apprehension of the owners  Most of the surviving dogs were the ones out on the hills guarding their flocks and thanks to enthusiasts that started a breeding programme after the war ended we still have the breed today.

More Local News

Back to Local News