In the mid 1950's, before the motorway network covered the country, a group of French Bulldog exhibitors met, usually in the tents at Championship shows, to discuss the possibilities of forming another breed club to cater specifically for those who lived in the Midlands and the North. At that time, although Birmingham had its two shows, the only shows in the north which had CC's for the breed were Blackpool, Manchester and Leeds. The parent club, The French Bulldog Club of England, held most of its functions in and around London.
The Midland and Northern Counties French Bulldog Club was granted official status by the Kennel Club on November 11th 1958 with 31 founder members and a committee of 12.
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The driving force behind the founding of the club was Joan Cottrall (pictured) who was appointed Secretary and Clara Cook was the President (1959 - 1971). The membership fee was 15/- per annum, a figure that was to last into the 70s when it rose to £1. The club's first show was held in conjunction with Birmingham National in 1959. Other shows were held, combined with other societies, and classes were guaranteed at several northern show societies (with the committee paying for any shortfall!). In 1961 the club held its first Open show at Crewe, and in 1964 began holding 2 Open shows each year. The venue was Copenhall Working Men's Club, a splendid hall, but we had to provide our own food and crockery, so the committee would all arrive laden, with literally, almost everything but the kitchen sink! The first show where we held a raffle to help swell club funds was in 1964 and the profit was £9! In 1970 we moved to Penkridge, our current show venue. |
In 1962 the membership numbered 51, and by 1964 it had increased to 70. We presently have over 200 members. Today our membership is not only regional or national but international. On August 21st 1971 the club held its first Championship show, and has enjoyed Championship show status ever since. Transport today is easier of course, and while enjoying an excellent relationship with the Parent Club, the Midland & Northern still fills the geographical gap for which it was founded.
The Midland & Northern Counties French Bulldog Club celebrated the 50th Anniversary of its founding with a two day Championship Show special at Sketchley Grange in September 2008