I, and my family, knew Dennis over many, many years through the world of Holstein/Friesian cattle, breeding and showing, along with me having worked for Dennis for a few years through the 1980's.

Dennis' work for a semen-selling company took him all around the UK and Ireland as well as parts of Europe.  During this time he also started taking professional cattle photographs and was much in demand.  I worked for Dennis as his farm secretary, starting when he lived at Folly Gate, near Okehampton, in Devon, continuing to work for him when he moved to his own farm at Woodbury Salterton.  I was often met by dictaphone tapes for transcription with aircraft noise in the background.

My family owned the Suddon herd and we frequently competed against Dennis at various shows in Devon, Cornwall and beyond.  These shows often entailed overnight stays (sleeping with the cattle, in the cattle lorry or, if you were really lucky, in the 'upmarket' (not) herdmens' accommodation).  But it was at these events that you got to know your fellow competitors better, since you spent so much time with them (from breakfast to bed).

Dennis was someone who would always try and help anyone else if he could.  He could be 'a bit of lad' on occasions, but nothing that endangered anyone's, or anything's, lives (human, animal, family or friend).  He was always good company.

Although I was heavily involved in YFC, Dennis' involvement with stockjudging didn't necessarily cross over with mine.  But he was a respected and valued judge,and trainer, who was always keen and willing to share his knowledge and experience.

I was extremely shocked to hear of his death, as I know others will have been too.  However, I have nothing but happy memories of working for him and showing against him.

Rest in Peace Dennis and friends.

Penny Muxworthy (nee Bewes)