Sheepdog Trials raise funds for local charities

Ahead of this year’s Macclesfield Sheepdog Trials taking place on 4^th and 5^th August, local MP, David Rutley, joined the Macclesfield & District Sheepdog Trials Association to present a number of cheques to representatives of six local charities. 

In 2022, the successful sheepdog trials and the raffle ticket sales raised a very impressive £3,000, which enabled representatives from each of, East Cheshire Hospice, Rossendale Trust, MacMillan Cancer Support, Ronald McDonald House, Macclesfield Multiple Sclerosis Society and The British Heart Foundationto receive a cheque totalling £500. This funding will help support the vital work of these important local charities. 

This year’s Macclesfield Sheepdog Trials will take place over the weekend of Friday 4^th and Saturday 5^th August. The Trials are one of the area’s truly unique events, which has a long tradition in the calendar of local rural communities dating back to 1945. They provide a fantastic opportunity for families to see the dogs, handlers and shepherds showcase their fantastic skills, all competing to win the prestigious Open trials Championship on the Saturday evening. 

As well as the sheepdog trials themselves, there will be plenty of fun to be had for all across the weekend. On the Friday evening, the famous tug-o-war competition will be held accompanied by a bar and band. On Saturday, families will be able to enjoy a variety of stalls and food as well as the Tegg’s Nose Fell Race which takes place at 2:30pm. Finally, on the Sunday evening, the local Young Farmer’s Clubs of Macclesfield and Congleton are hosting a Charity Supper in the marque on the field in aid of East Cheshire Hospice and club funds. This will be a Pea & Pie Supper with bingo and a raffle.  Tickets are £15 each, available by calling 07812 902061 or email secretary@macclesfieldsheepdogtrials.co.uk.

More details about the Trials and how to get tickets, can be found using the following link,www.macclesfieldsheepdogtrials.co.uk.

Speaking after, David said “The Sheepdog Trials are always an exciting occasion and one I look forward to each year. It is an honour to be Patron of this much-loved Association. The weekend provides an activity for every member of the family and I would encourage all local residents to visit and support this popular local event, particularly if they haven’t taken part before.”