THE HISTORY OF THE SOCIETY The Southern English Setter Society was founded in 1983. At that time the Secretary was Mrs C. Grimsdell, the President Miss D. E. Jones, the Chairman Mrs L.Allan-Scott, the Treasurer Mr M.A.Winch, Cup Steward Mr C.Brown and a Committee of 15. Back in 1982 Mr C.Davies (Sundeala) was a great instigator in the forming of SESS where he chaired a meeting explaining the finer points regarding Kennel Club Rules and Regulations, together with general useful information to help the Society on to the right path. From thereon the Society felt proud to have held various functions, both social and educational over the years. Some of these included the educational film 'Gait' followed by questions being directed to a panel of breeders and a veterinary surgeon, a Setter Comparison Day, trimming demonstrations for both pet and show owners, friendly matches with neighbouring societies, barbecues, ever popular annual 'Fun Days' and to a more serious note the very successful judging seminar. SESS has been privileged to have had amongst the speakers, specialists in their own fields, such as Kay White, Tom Horner, Peggy Grayson chaired the amalgamation of the Setter breeds function on movement. SESS's first Open Show was held at Kempton Park Racecourse on Sunday December 11 1983 with very much a Christmas theme and spirit. It attracted a super entry of 239 dogs for the judge Mrs C. Duffield of Ashpenda English Setter fame. In time, steadily the Society grew attracting more members and the annual magazine was published complete with informative articles and the opportunity for all to take part. The magazine was edited by Mrs J. Winch. The club colours were decided on as orange and blue and soon car stickers, lapel badges and pens were available for purchase. The Society progressed to two Open Shows a year one in July and one in November with a great emphasis on encouraging Junior Handlers. In 1985 , due to a business move the Secretary retired and Mrs G. Fairbairn was duly elected. At the same time Mr W. Parkinson became the Patron of the Society. 1986 saw the news that the society had been granted Championship Show status for 1988. During 1987 our chairman reluctantly announced her retirement from all Committee work and in her capacity as chairman of the SESS. As a former founder member and committee member, Mr S.Henderson was duly elected chairman, with Mr D.Lewis as vice-chairman. Both Mrs L.Allan-Scott and our president Miss D. E. Jones were made honorary life members for all their sterling work and support of the Society. Finally this brings us up to 1988 and our First Championship Show. From all the officers and the committee of the SESS we thank everybody for the wonderful array of trophies so kindly donated, the breed societies for the specials , all other generous sponsors and to the enthusiastic exhibitors and members for their support.   Glenys Fairbairn (1988).