We are based in Taunton, the county town of Somerset. Our house was built in 1846 and has many lovely historical features, but more importantly is large enough for all our dogs to live inside with us as family companions. We place great value on the kind, trusting nature of the typical Golden and temperament takes priority in any breeding plans.

My family have owned Golden Retrievers for many years and the affix "Gatchells" was first registered by my Mother, Betty Cowen, in 1975. She bred and campaigned our first Gatchells Champion namely Ch.Gatchells Sky At Night J.W.

David and I obtained our first Golden in 1985. He was swiftly followed by a companion bitch, Seruilia Sica Sue, who joined us when she was a year old. Her previous owners had entered her for a few shows, so we showed her, she won some minor placings and we were hooked !! Considering that we were such novices at showing Susie went on to do so well for us, winning several Best In Show awards at Open Shows as well as her Kennel Club Stud Book Number. She had the sweetest nature and the most beautiful forehand angulation, and this is now a strong feature in all our girls, thanks to Susie.

In March 1987 I was granted the affix "Silversky" and three litters were registered under this affix. However, by 1989 I had an interest in the affix Gatchells and have continued to register puppies under this affix ever since. Firstly in partnership with my Mother, then on my own and in latter years in partnership with my husband David.

Although only a very small kennel we have bred nine Champions and ten Junior Warrant winners. Four of the Champions have the same dam, Gatchells Golden Girl. We are so lucky to have owned this wonderful bitch as she has always produced us such beautiful puppies. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren possess many of her lovely attributes and continue to win well, with a granddaughter and a great granddaughter gaining their titles.

Both David and I judge Goldens and I have awarded CCs many times in the UK and throughout Europe. David is treasurer of the Golden Retriever Club and the Golden Retriever Breed Council, whilst I am a committee member of the South Western G.R.C. We both derive great pleasure from our involvement with this lovely breed and I really cannot imagine life without them.