Forgue sheepdog handler George Simpson and dog Luna win at Inverness competition

A FORGUE sheepdog handler came home as a clear winner at an Inverness competition.

George Simpson and dog Luna were crowned winners at Knocknagael Farm when the Highland Nursery Sheepdog League ran its concluding trial on Friday, February 3.

Knocknagael Nursery is part of a league of 10 trials which determined the team that will represent the Highlands at the Inter-district Nursery Final to be held near Kilmarnock in March.

Fit, lively cross hoggs ran consistently over the flat grass field providing a challenge for the young dogs.

George Simpson’s Luna took control of her packet of four sheep from the start and, under the expert and very experienced handling of George, completed the course well out in front of others with 85 points out of a possible 100.

Luna, who is 2 years and 9 months old, used her extensive experience of handling sheep in her daily work on the farm to successfully navigate the obstacles.

In addition to first prize and the Knocknagael Cup, George and Luna secured a well-earned third place in the Highland Team after being placed in seven out of the 10 qualifying nursery trials which included a first and three second places.

This is Luna’s second year representing the Highland League Team.

“Luna is a tremendous work dog at home”, George said. "She is very capable and reliable on the farm as well as on the trial field."

Along with Luna, George also secured a place in the team with two of his other dogs, Fleet and Finn who were placed fourth and fifth respectively.

Also representing the north is Ian Sutherland from Strathnaver with Cap, Jasmine Grant with Bob and Jasmine Grant with Lad as reserve.

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