News > 2008

Farpaisean Chon-Chaorach - International Sheepdog Trials on BBC ALBA

BBC ALBA, the new Gaelic channel, is delighted to announce that it is broadcasting coverage of the International Sheepdog trials.

Coin chaorach

Highlights from the International Sheepdog trials, the Blue Riband event in the calendar of sheepdog trialling, that took place at Kinmel Park, Abergele, North Wales where the top 15 trialists from each nation, Scotland, England, Ireland and Wales competed against each other, will be broadcast on BBC ALBA this Friday, 19 December.

The World Sheepdog Trials that has seen over 240 dogs and handlers from 22 different countries flock to Dinefwr Park, Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire, will also be broadcast on BBC ALBA, Friday 26 December.

Producer, Kathryn Johnson at MNE Media said: “The return of sheepdog trialling to our screens is something I have always been keen to see, and the launch of the new BBC ALBA service has provided the perfect opportunity to once again showcase this captivating sport.

“Farpaisean Chon-Chaorach has been greeted with great enthusiasm from all within the sheep dog trialing circles and the many, many fans who enjoy this unrivalled display of skill and connection between animal and handler. Despite the elements putting up a challenge on more than one occasion, the series has been an absolute joy to produce and we hope it will continue to be greatly received in order to return to the circuit next year.”

Coin chaorach pic 2

Presenter, Catriona Macphee said: "Having grown up watching 'One Man and his dog' with my dad, I couldn't wait to get out and meet the handlers and more importantly see them and their dogs in action.  Everyone I told about Farpaisean Chon-Chaorach had some memory of having watched sheepdog trialling on TV at some point in their lives and were really looking forward to it being aired especially given the Gaelic slant.  

“Every one of the handlers and shepherds were really passionate about their sport and that comes across in their dedication to it and the great feeling of community within the sport; distances didn't seem to matter, they all knew each other, I just loved that. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting all the handlers and there were a good few characters in amongst them.”

Farpaisean Chon-Chaorach was produced for BBC ALBA by MNE Media and will be broadcast on Friday 19th December at 21:00 with a repeat going out on Sunday 21st at 22:00. The World Sheepdog Trials is being broadcast on Friday 26th at 20:00.