Sheepdog trials to return to Caithness after 14-month absence
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ANNUAL sheep dog trials return to Caithness this weekend after an absence of 14 months due to the coronavirus pandemic. The event will be staged on Saturday and Sunday at Ham farm, Dunnet with up to up to 50 dogs taking part in a 19-acre field which has been set aside by Lady H N C Maclennan.
The competition is being held as a fundraiser and a great opportunity to gain valuable points for those hoping to take part in the forthcoming prestigious four-day Scottish National Sheep Dog Trials postponed last year but planned to start on August 18 at Lythmore Farm, Westfield, Thurso. The last time the Scottish National was held in Caithness was 29 years ago in 1992 at Scrabster Farm.
Organising this weekend's trials are Tina Coghill Robertson, shepherd at Inkstack Farm Barrock and Kirsteen Thorburn, lambing assistant, Barrock and friend Kelsey Keith, shepherd from Durness. They trio are grateful to the local businesses which made donations and have given prizes for the trials after a difficult trading year during the lockdown.
Judge for Saturday's event, starting at 8am is Brian Ross, Mid Gruinards, Ardgay and for the Sunday, Jock Mackenzie, Blairgowrie, will take charge.
Local Highland councillor, Willie Mackay, said: "As the lockdown eases I’m delighted to see outdoor events coming to the fore. Names and addresses of all taking part will be recorded, trucks and vehicles entering the field will be spread out as before in the large field at advantage points where best to see the handlers and their dogs, hand sanitizer will be available."
Mr Mackay said this weekend's event will see working collies being put through their paces, driving a selected number of sheep around a field of fences gates or enclosures directed by their handlers.
