Littlehampton duo who took the lead in training dogs

TOGETHER they have helped to train hundreds of dogs to obey their owners.
L24025H13  John (86), Marion (81) and their dog, JacobL24025H13  John (86), Marion (81) and their dog, Jacob
L24025H13 John (86), Marion (81) and their dog, Jacob

But after more than 40 years playing pivotal roles in setting up and driving forward the Littlehampton Dog Training Club, the organisation’s chairman, John Greenfield and wife Marion, the treasurer, are finally hanging up their leads.

Animal lovers John, 86, and Marion, 78, of Kent Road, Littlehampton, were part of the team which founded the dog training club, which helps pet owners from across the Littlehampton area.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

John said: “We both loved dogs and we both felt that we wanted to make a real difference. We wanted to make dogs better citizens.

“We used to belong to a club in Angmering. But we felt that there was a need for one to be set up in Littlehampton.

“Marion, myself and two others decided to form the Littlehampton Dog Training Club and we have been doing it ever since.”

The club was based within its long-standing headquarters, at Wick Hall, in Wick Street, for about 35 years, before it moved to its current base, at Climping Village Hall, about six years ago.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“I must have trained hundreds of dogs and helped Lord knows how many owners during this time,” said John, who started as the group’s secretary, before rising to become its chairman, six years ago.

However, the couple have not only trained other people’s pets but their own – somewhere in the region of 11 dogs over the years, to be exact.

“We both love pet and have always trained our dogs ourselves. It’s a good experience because it build that bond between dog and owner,” John added.

Although the couple have stepped down from their respective roles, they hinted that they would remain with the organisation to assist as trainers.

John summed it up: “We’ve had a good run but it’s time for someone else to be given a chance to take the reins.”

For details on the club, its classes and activities, call 01243 552716.

Related topics: