Bamford Sheep Dog Trials Association was formed in 1943. We are a registered charity and are run by a committee of voluntary members, many of whom are sheep farmers or people who have an interest in the activities of the Association.
We have an annual Sheep Dog Trials which is held on the recreation ground in Bamford on the second Bank Holiday in May each year.
The Sheep Dog Trials shows the amazing teamwork that exists between a shepherd and his sheepdog just as it does in a real life situation when working on the hills. It attracts competitors with their dogs from all over the country and is a popular event to watch for all the family. There are classes for single and double dogs and at the end of the day we present the cups and prizes for winners and runners up.
This traditional rural event hosts other related activities such:
- as a demonstration of different sheep shearing techniques and competition between local farmers. This always always interesting to watch.
- A competition to look for the best conditioned sheepdog or bitch. This is judged by the Lady President and usually proves to be a difficult task.
- A four and a half mile fell race also takes from the recreation ground to the top of Win Hill via Parkin Clough. Not for the faint hearted! This again attracts fell runners from all over the country.
- Several sides stalls selling cakes, plants, food, drinks and ice creams and playground is available for the entertainment of younger children.
- All the profits from the trials are distributed to local charities each year.