Woman attacked at dog meet, claim
A woman was assaulted during a Black Country meeting of the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club, it has been claimed.
Police have launched an investigation into the alleged row by members.
A club delegate has now lodged a complaint of assault following the event last month, which was held at Cradley Labour Club, off Colley Gate, and attended by around 90 members.
The venue, known as Wilson Hall, held the Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club's Single Breed Limited Show on February 22.
According to the terrier club's own website, one of its aims is to 'foster a feeling of fellowship among fanciers'.
But a fierce row is said to have broken out with insults thrown. It is believed to have started following a verbal altercation involving club president Barbara Beaufoy and member Marie Stokes from Walsall.
Mrs Beaufoy refused to comment and club chairman Vera Westwood added: "I will not be making a comment."
It is thought that the incident resulted in the club president and some other officials resigning on the spot.
But no-one at the club was today willing to comment about the circumstances of the incident or who was involved.
Neither the complainant nor Mrs Stokes have been available for comment.
Staffordshire Police today said that they had taken a statement about the alleged assault.
But spokeswoman Faye Casey said West Midlands Police will now be taking up the investigation.
West Midlands Police spokeswoman Catherine Hickman added: "We have been made aware of an allegation of assault.
"The victim who lives outside of the West Midlands area contacted her local force and we believe they have taken a statement of complaint.
"The statement will be reviewed by West Midlands Police and appropriate action will be taken.
A Kennel Club spokesperson said: "We can confirm that we are aware of the situation but cannot comment any further at this stage."
Staffordshire Bull Terriers, otherwise known as Staffies, are among the most popular of the terrier breeds.
The Kennel Club say the dogs are descended from a cross between the Bulldog and a terrier.
Breeders say the dogs are kind, fearlessness and loyal. But others say they can find the breed intimidating.
