First sheepdog trials attract 4,000 visitors

Trevor Cooke, Ian Wheeler, Angus Baird and Louise Hart

The inaugural Isle of Wight Sheepdog Trials held earlier this year raised more than £5,800 for the Island’s only hospice, Mountbatten.

The event attracted over 4,000 spectators and put the Isle of Wight on the map, as it welcomed competitors from all over Britain.

The sunny weekend and stunning location, at Rowlands Lane, gave competitors and spectators alike a great weekend, admiring the skill of the dogs and their handlers while relaxing with a Goddards Beer or a cup of tea and a slice of Calbourne Classics cake.

Organiser, Louise Hart, said: “We were all overjoyed to be able to present Mountbatten with a cheque for £5,873 this week and we can’t wait to be back next year to support the incredible work they do again.”

The trials are organised by a voluntary committee made up of Ian Wheeler, Trevor Cooke, Angus Baird, Matt Legge, Victoria Calder and Louise Hart.

Next year’s event will take place on June 1 and 2.