Goodbye to a great Dexter friend - Ben Robinson's passing

[Ted Neal]

I'm sorry to relay the sad passing of Ben Robinson, a wonderful lady and great supporter of the Dexter breed. With her stepfather W.B.Mattam she founded the Statenboro herd in 1951. The original cattle coming from L Cussons' "Chubby" herd and three animals from the "Grinstead" herd of Lady Loder. A sad day for the breed. Rest in peace.

[jeanthomas]

Thanks Ted for that. What a loss. My first thought when I read this was what a character. My first memory of Ben Robinson was at a show (either Cranleigh or South of England?) back in the early 80's. My brother and I had accidently and by pure good luck acquired our first dexter heifer who was a very good example of the breed back then. We were to put it simply very green at showing cows (only welsh ponies previously!) Ben came across to us and talked to us about her. We explained we knew nothing about showing cows and were only there for the experience and a good time. She walked off and I thought we had offended her in some way. She returned with sand paper and oil and set about the heiffers horns. "That looks better" she said. I believe we got a yellow rossette! (Well welsh ponies dont come with horns!!!).

I also recall she had a lot to do with the printing of the very early bulletin?