Kevin Evans gets the better of father David at Islwyn with Mirk

The field rises away from the handler, and because of its undulations, one of which obliterates the point of lift, caused more problems than were initially anticipated.

The Welsh cross yearlings were let out at the top left hand corner and walked to a central point. Either side was possible for an outrun of 350 yards, but the one on the left was favoured to prevent the possibility of the ewes returning to the release pen.

Dogs had to think for themselves at the lift and those who took quiet control of their sheep could start a good return. Careful handling was required to drive downhill, but pace was needed at the left-hand turn around the handler after which the sheep could attempt an escape back up the hill.

Problems occurred at the end of the cross drive, at the shed and at the pen. The trial was well supported by locals and with the many spectators, it is always a village affair. This is thanks enough for the organisers, Sylvia Poole and Henry Coope and their helpers.

A lunchtime auction and the residue of the trial proceeds amounted to £500, which was donated to the Hospice of the Valleys Cancer Charity.

Winning return

Following his duties as a past supreme champion, judging and giving training sessions in Sweden, America and Canada, Kevin Evans gave notice of his return home by winning again with Mirk and coming sixth with Spot.

His father, David, showed from where Kevin has obtained his skills, coming second in the Open, and placing two dogs in the Novice trial.

Sunday saw Llanarthne members host a judging seminar at Wernbongam, Llanarthne. Competitors were a young handler, a lady handler and a novice handler. These were followed by two very able international handlers.

The runs were all filmed and were judged by three appointed judges, but all spectators present were given judging sheets.

Afterwards, all retired to the new Llanarthne Community Centre where the films were shown run-by-run and the judges had to declare their scores.

These were discussed openly and many questions raised. Meirion Owen had his I.S.D.S. Bible (Rules for Trials) with him and clarified many points.

All enjoyed the afternoon and the proceeds were donated to the 2011 Welsh National.

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