‘For the Love of Dogs’ at Society of Master Saddlers’ National Competition

THE 2021 Society of Master Saddlers’ National Saddlery Competition will see a canine theme as President’s Choice class.

Bea Blakeman will take up the reins as President at this year’s Annual General Meeting in September and has come up with the concept of entrants designing and making any leather item incorporating the idea ‘For the Love of Dogs’.

The entry can be decorative, ornamental or a practical item for dogs of dog lovers and must be made of leather using traditional saddlery skills.

Said Bea:

“As part of my year as President I was given the opportunity to put forward the idea for the theme of The President’s Choice class and wanted to come up with  a theme that I am really passionate about – and that’s dogs – I just love them.

“My world revolves around my dogs! I have three Labradors, Florence, Mabel and new addition Freddy. I can’t imagine a life without dogs in it, they’re therapy, fun and company all rolled into one.

“I really hope those entering will throw themselves into the theme and wow us with their designs and innovation.

“It gives competitors a chance to think outside the box and allows them to let their imagination run wild – I can’t wait to see the entries.”

The class is open to all Society of Master Saddlers’ members and their employees and must be the sole work of the entrant.

The entries will be judged on quality and craftsmanship as well as their innovative design and features.

Once again the class will have an added dimension as it will also be part judged at BETA International in January where all the entries will be on display at The Society of Master Saddlers’ stand.

The canine theme also ties in with BETA International’s drive to encourage more pet product businesses to attend the trade fair.

For 2021 and for the first time a second class will also be on display and part judged at BETA International with the theme – A Miniature Piece of Leather Riding, Driving or Schooling Equipment.

Said Society of Master Saddlers’ Chief Executive, Hazel Morley:

“Showcasing the entries at BETA International brings a lot of interest and we are delighted to be adding this second class.

“This particular class requires intricate skill and the entry should not be larger than half size. 

“The Craft Committee has pulled out all the stops to produce the 2021 National Saddlery Competition schedule early and have included some very interesting and innovative classes.”

Entries for the President’s Choice and Miniature class must be sent to the society office by January 20, 2021. The Society of Master Saddlers’ National Saddlery Competition takes place at Saddlers’ Hall, London on Monday, February 1.

For further information contact The Society of Master Saddlers on 01449 711642 or visit www.mastersaddlers.co.uk