John and Joe triumph at Staffin Sheepdog Trials

A LOCH Ness-side man beat off the Emerald Isle charge to secure victory at the 2015 Staffin Sheepdog Trials.

In a stellar international field of 52 dogs at Elishadder, John MacKillop from Fort Augustus emerged the victor with his dog, Joe.

The pair won the annual competition, which is part of the Hebridean Circuit, by a five-point margin.

Behind John, in runner-up position, plus third, fourth and fifth, were a group of talented Irish handlers. In sixth position was Kensaleyre’s Jimmy Lamont, who also came first in the local competition.

Dunoon-based Stuart Davidson, a twice Supreme Champion himself, was the judge on the day which was blessed with good, dry weather.

A tremendous £3,031.65 was raised on the day for Skye Cancer Care, eclipsing last year’s total by more than £700.

Organiser Ian MacDonald thanked the army of helpers on the day and everybody who supported the popular annual event which has become a staple of the Staffin calendar.

Results: 1st John MacKillop, Fort Augustus, with Joe 90 points; 2nd Shannon Comm, Ireland, with Harry 85 points; 3rd Lachlan Comm, Ireland, with Ben 85 points; 4th James MacGee, Ireland, with Silver – 83 points; 5th Lachlan Comm, Ireland, with Ollie 80 points; 6th Jimmy Lamont, Kensaleyre, with Craig – 80 points