WELL-TRAINED dogs competed to become the country's champion on the weekend, as part of the English National Sheep Dog Trials.

Northleach saw 150 English sheep dogs and their handlers compete, across three days, for a chance to represent England at the 2014 international trials which will be held in Eire this September.

During the event held at Broadfield Farm, 50 dogs ran each day competing to find the top 15 who will go forward to represent England at the International Sheep Dog Trials in County Roscommon next month,

James Howard of Holmfirth, Huddersfield with his dog Wisp, was the overall winner of the trial, achieving 199 points out of a maximum of 220 points. He also collected six out of the 10 trophies presented at the end of the final day, and he will lead the English Team as captain.

Around 3,000 people attended the event at Northleach on each of the three days.

Chief executive of the International Sheep Dog Society Judith Sheen said it was a very successful weekend.

"The excellent organisation, led by local committee chairman Dick Roper, ensured three great days of trialling," she said. "The course was challenging and provided for good spectating."