The Society was formed in 1964 as the Devon Sheepdog Society at an inaugural meeting near Tiverton.
There were 14 founding members. Sadly, Ken Watson, the last of the founding members remaining in the Society, passed away in the autumn of 2010. A well-attended memorial service was held at Postbridge to bade farewell to a much-liked and respected member.
However, the various cups and trophies record a great deal of the history of the membership in the past. The names of handlers and dogs engraved on these trophies serves as a roll call from days gone by. We are honoured to continue this tradition with the advent of several new trophies brought forward for 2025.
We have been unable to trace any record of just when it became the Devon and Exmoor Sheepdog Society. Certainly, from an early stage some of the Society’s main trials have been held in the Exmoor area and continue to be hosted to this day. We are grateful for the ongoing support of regional farmers, without whom we could not continue this tradition.
In common with most societies, there have been ups and downs over the years. One of the biggest “down” moments occurred when a long-gone treasurer borrowed all the funds and forgot to repay them! The membership rallied to the flag, and a big jumble sale was held in Exeter. Many of the farmers’ wives who were accustomed to the polite affairs held in their village halls were much amazed at the hurly burley of a sale in the big city. We almost needed bouncers on the doors, and it was a most wonderful example of country mice come to town.
The “ups”, fortunately – have been more numerous. The National Sheepdog Trials have been held in the South West five times. Although the first occasion predates the Society’s founding, there was a 40-year gap before the event returned to the region, where it was hosted at Powderham Castle.
In 2009, the English National Trials were held in North Devon alongside a Country Fayre, with all proceeds benefiting the North Devon Hospice. Over three days, a staggering £82,000 was raised, and the event was deemed one of the best National Trials ever.
The 2013 National Trials returned to North Devon, again alongside a Country Fayre, held on the estate of Lord and Lady Arran at Castle Hill, Filleigh, near South Molton. Most recently, the 2024 National Trial was held in Postbridge, Dartmoor.
The Society’s current membership is approximately 150 and continues to grow. It remains dedicated to promoting all aspects of sheepdog handling in the region. Thankfully, as some long-standing members begin to show signs of “wear and tear,” new faces appear and new hand volunteer to carry the baton forward.
Some trial venues have changed over the years, while others remain at their traditional sites. The Society now hosts seven main open trials and two with restricted entry conditions. It also organizes the Devon vs. Cornwall match on alternate years.
In 2015, the purchase of a mobile sheep-handling system marked a significant but worthwhile investment, greatly aiding the smooth running of events.
Long may the Society flourish, and may the membership continue to enjoy the sport of sheepdog trialling, whether as competitors or spectators.
Photos taken during the 2024 English National Trials on Dartmoor, by member Tracy Carter.