I am searching for a golden retriever puppy, due to be born around mid June and ready to come to its new home from around the 2nd week of August. If that isn't picky enough, I'd also like a bitch which isn't too pale in colour. We live in Maidstone, Kent. We will be 1st time dog owners, have 3 children aged 11 to 13 and 3 cats. I do not go out to work.
I have been emailing and phoning people, no doubt making a real nuisance of myself. Sometimes I'm told that I've started my search too early and other times that I should have been on a waiting list ages ago. If anyone has any advice, I'd love to hear it.    

know of 2 reputable breedersr
nr ashford if that is of any use xx

You need to start your search ASAP.
Get yourself a good breeder and ask all the questions you need to ask about the health tested parents and find out as much as you can.
Go and visit the bitch and see if you like her.....genuine breeders will welcome you.
I asume you have tried champdogs puppy site.
Good luck in your search.

>Sometimes I'm told that I've started my search too early

Puppies for your dates will come from matings that have already taken place.  Pet breeders and puppy farmers may not start thinking of owners til they've had scans for puppy numbers or till they have a litter 'on the ground'.  Exercise some caution with these type of breeders...

>other times that I should have been on a waiting list ages ago.

Some of the very best breeders will be breeding to keep a puppy themselves for showing and will have waiting lists as they may have planned this mating many months in advance.

It does depend on whether you want to show as to which type of breeder to go for BUT health is not something you want to take risks with.  Do make sure you know exactly what is necessary for the breed and that you discuss this with your chosen breeders.  Ideally you want a puppy from someone that has really thought about the best mating for their bitch, has great mentor assistance (even if they are first timers), and absolutely from health tested parents. 

Have you contacted the breed clubs?  Good luck with your search

Yes please, can you let me have their details. Many thanks

http://www.thegoldenretrieverclub.co.uk/

http://www.goldenretrievers.co.uk/

They maybe able to help with details on any breeders nearby who have planned litters..