THE Lake District annual sheep dog trials took place for the 120th time at Ings last week, with more than 50 competitors turning out for the much-loved event.

Dozens of spectators went to watch the traditional Lakeland spectacle at Hill Farm, which also included hound trails, a dog show, Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling and craft displays.

The event was also celebrating its return after bad weather last year resulted in cancellation.

Secretary Carole Hodgson said: “The turn out has been fabulous and it is really great to have the show back on. It is fantastic to be able to run this year.

“The course is very difficult, but most dogs have done very well today.”

Speaking highly of the traditional aspect of the day was Hilary Brown, of Carnforth, who was attending with her 10-year-old border collie Squiggle.

Hilary said: “This is always a fantastic sports day. We are here every year, rain, hail or sunshine.

“I think it is the friendliness that brings us back. It is also so traditional. This is what the Lake District is about.”

John Graham, of Ambleside, was competing with his dog Meg.

He explained his love of trials, saying: “It was at this event that I got into it by chance eight years ago.

“My daughter gave me a dog when I was recovering from a fell running injury, and I brought her here and she was out like a shot. That was Meg’s mother, and I have carried on ever since. I have had two wonderful dogs.”

However, one competitor, who wished not to be named, complained that the sheep were not used to dogs and that that negatively impacted the competition.