BLISTERING weather over the weekend did not prevent the Mathon Sheepdog Trials from being a success.

"We had about 60 entries for the main event on Saturday," said organiser Jerry Thomas.

"That's a little down on last year, and that will have been because of the heat, but it's still a good turnout. We were out on the field for 14 hours."

The dogs and their masters, many of whom came from Wales, competed to see who could herd a flock of sheep most effectively. The overall winner was Gwynfor Thomas, from Llanelli, and his dog Moss.

There was also a good turn-out of spectators for the event at Upper House Farm, Cradley. Among the attractions was a fun dog show, organised by Clare Johnston of the Avenue Road veterinary practice in Malvern.

The previous evening saw a smaller-scale trial, restricted to shepherds who live within 20 miles of Mathon. This was won by Derek Lloyd, of Tenbury Wells, and his dog Moss.

During the event, money raised at last year's trials was presented to charity. A total of £500 went to Cancer Research UK, £200 each to Mathon Village Hall and Acorns Children's Hospice and £100 to the County Air Ambulance.

"I'm not sure yet how much money we raised this year," said Mr Thomas. "We'll decide who to donate it to at our annual meeting in November, but I think Cancer Research will remain our main charity."