Overwhelming, you might say. 170 entrants, the cake stall denuded of all but boiling water long before Best in Show had been awarded, the crack management team looking skywards for divine help – there is such a thing as too popular, you know.

That is not to complain. Far from it. More can truly be merrier. The keynote of light-hearted competitiveness did not falter; many smiles and only a few frowns (the vanishing cakes), slightly embarrassed celebrations of victory and a carnival of colour on a Sunday afternoon in the park – Merrie Young England.

John, as always, was the deus ex machina who brought it all together. Our old friends from Styal National Trust were there with their equipment and expertise, working hard before and after as well as keeping control of wild spirits in the Agility Ring. The Vets’ Place provided the rosettes and certificates for the winners, as they do every year. Ian and Phil passed judgement. Our thanks to all of them.

Finally, acknowledgements and gratitude to Emma V and Ann, who looked after the Registration stall, and to Chris and Emma H, who manned the cake stall, which was under siege from the word go.

Winners: Best in Show – Larry, owned by A Naden of Wilmslow. Most Handsome – Nelson. Prettiest Bitch – Coco. Golden Oldie – Oscar. Cutest Puppy – Anoushka. Best Trick – Lenni. Best Rescue – Perra. Most Like Owner – Larry. Waggiest Tail – Ruby. Timed Agility Ring – Tod, a Welsh Collie.