LKA reveals new plans

THIS year’s Ladies Kennel Association championship show year has drawn an entry of 11,268 dogs, an increase of 176 on last year.
Top breed is the Labrador with 289 dogs.
For the first time the show is to be held over a weekend, Saturday and Sunday December 12 and 13. A prime reason for the change is to eliminate the traffic problems which usually accompany a Friday opening to the show. In addition, judging start times are to be staggered in a bid to reduce the early morning crush. Exhibitors can find the start time for their breed in the dog press.
The West car park has been reserved for exhibitors only; the location is indicated on the National Exhibition Centre site plan attached to the schedule. Judges and stewards should go to the East car park where there will be a shuttle bus service to the NEC main entrance. Visitors will use the East 2 car park and will be bussed to the main entrance.
The main car park for disabled exhibitors will be adjacent to Hall 5, with an overflow in the South car park. The location is indicated on the NEC site plan.

Bus shuttles

There is also car parking for disabled people in East 1 from where shuttles will operate. People transported from here by bus will be dropped at door 4.1. Those who undertake the short walk from East 1 will be able to follow the designated route to door 4.5 (Hall 4). This car park is for official disabled badge holders only. Please note that these badges are issued by local authorities.
This year there will be additional NEC staff to assist disabled exhibitors, and additional buses for their use. These buses will have wheelchair lifts, and will operate between 7am and 6.30pm. The cost of this service will be met jointly by the NEC and LKA.
Disabled exhibitors will be able to hire a scooter or wheelchair from Bartram`s. Visitors are strongly advised to pre-book equipment to avoid disappointment. Bartram`s operate a phone booking line, 01353 778756, Monday to Friday from 9am until 5pm. Bookings can also be made via Bartram`s website.
The Kennel Club stand will be present, hall 4:98, where staff will answer queries and deal with Crufts matters.
There are still some committee rooms available for breed club meetings. Those interested should contact the LKA secretary Lesley Jupp on 01276 29495.