Last month Johnson’s sponsored the annual LLanwyddn Sheepdog trials for the third year in a row. The event welcomed near to 100 shepherds and their Border Collies, as participants put their herding skills into practice during a fierce countryside competition.
The trials took place on Monday 26th August 2024 and have consistently contributed to the historic International Sheep Dog Society (ISDS).
Buckets full of talent and hard work was brought to the trials, but who were the high-flyers this year?
On your marks, get set, go!
Across the two days, a grand total of 93 dogs competed in a mix of classes and local trials. The society ran two separate classes: an open class (50 dogs) without restrictions, and a novice class (21 dogs) strictly for dogs who have never placed first in an open class anywhere in the world.
Reputations weren’t the only thing on the line, as herders battled it out to claim a £50 cash prize in the open class and £15 in the novice class. Those who found themselves lower down the leaderboard didn’t go home empty handed, with smaller rewards available for up to sixth place.
Outright winners who had been herding for a number of years had their eyes on a much more valuable prize. Challenge trophies are one of the most precious items obtainable from the trials, and a true reflection of the ongoing talent and hard work brought by both the Collies and shepherds.
The sheep were provided by the Lake Vyrnwy Estate, sourcing hardy Welsh mountain ewes which are cared for by estate shepherds. Within the society, there is a small committee who come together on the day of the trials to release the sheep and ensure there is sufficient stock at the top of the field.
And the winners are in…
2024 winner for the Llanwyddn open class was Alun L Jones and his dog Denwyn Hemp, past National President of the International Sheepdog Trials and regular competitor at the National and International trials. Though taking triumph in the novice class was Italian Debora Carrara, who happened to be visiting the area on holiday.
Day two of the trials was designed for local handlers, where prize money was no longer a priority and the incentive of a trophy counted for more than any financial gain ever could. Henry Hughes and his dog Dyfnant Sika scooped up the prestigious Silver Salver, accrediting their combined years of experience competing in National and International trials.
The local trial was won by one of the estate shepherds, Bryn Roberts and his dog Cled. The Solid Silver Cup has been competed for since 1934, and Bryn’s victory emulated his dedication to the event and fondness of the ISDS perfectly.
Worth more than just a first-place title, the trophies are a true stamp of unrivalled herding and strong outfield relationships between man and dog. The ISDS invited Liverpool City Council and the owners of the estate and reservoir, longtime suppliers of water to the city of Liverpool, to present the silverware to the winners.
Where it all began
Back in 1906, an important meeting was had by English and Scottish sheepmen, sparking first mention of the ISDS. Soon after, the society was formed with the intention of stimulating interest in the shepherd, shepherd’s calling and better stock management through adequate sheepdog training.
Since its establishment, major society trials have been held every summer in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales – apart from in the first and second World Wars and the Foot and Mouth Outbreak in 2001.
The Llanwyddn trials were specifically organised by committee member Cyril Roberts, who came to work as a hill shepherd in 1974 and has adopted the role of secretary for the last 33 years.
The work and educational opportunities provided by the ISDS still hold great importance today, as without a good working dog, shepherds can’t fulfil their role on the hills or lowlands.
How Johnson’s contributions continue to help
Cyril reached out to Johnson’s in 2022 in search of support for the Llanwddyn trials. Since then, we have been proud sponsors of the event, providing yearly cash donations, bespoke outdoor banners and the distribution of free pet products on the day.
At this year’s trials, prize winners received a Johnson’s goody bag to accompany their winnings, which also served as a care package for working and home dogs.
Eager to preserve this historic practise, the ISDS are throwing more into the trials every year, and recruiting additional sponsors like Johnson’s will only strengthen the event’s success. The focus has extended further than just shepherds and their dog, now educating the public and society members on wider topics such as Bordie Collie health, ethical handling of livestock and sustainable farming practices.
If you are interested in getting involved in any upcoming trials or becoming a member, you can contact the ISDS here.
