ENGLISH NATIONAL 2011
In 2011 the English National Sheepdog Trial returns to the south of England. The venue will be Lower Boxhill Farm, Dorking, Surrey.
A committee has been formed to organise all the key areas, however the support of all our members will be important to making this trial a success. If you would like to be involved in any way, large or small, please contact Elaine Anstey in the first instance 01428 652 822 (leave a message). Listed here are some key areas which require varying amounts of commitment.
SPONSORSHIP & fundraising - we are, of course, looking for sponsorship to fund this event. If you know of a company that might be willing to support the trials please let us know the company name with a contact. A service that can be provided is as welcome as a financial contribution. Do you have a good fundraising idea that you would be willing to do. Suggestions so far have included a car boot sale and even a dinner dance/ball, though neither of these have been followed up with anyone willing to do them.
Accommodation - while there are a number of good hotels and guest houses in the area, the prices are likely to be high. If you would be willing to rent out a spare room to someone attending the trial, possibly a handler with a dog, and perhaps provide breakfast, please get in touch. The trial caterers will be making breakfast so you do not have to provide it to guests.
Time keepers - the important task of time keeping is shared by a team of volunteers, two at a time, carrying out the task for an allocated time period. This job usually affords a prime view of the course while being in the dry.
Gate duty - volunteers are required for greeting visitors to the trial and taking monies on the gate.
Letting out - hard working sheep savvy people required to be part of this team, willing to take direction from the chief sheep steward.
Announcements and commentary - we already have a chief announcer, however, additional members to the team will be necessary to provide breaks for each announcer.
Sundry duties - there are various small jobs that will need to be done during the trial, including someone who can walk round the venue and ensure the toilets are stocked with toilet paper, someone to do bin emptying etc.
None of these tasks require your committment for a whole day/s (except possibly letting out). The more volunteers we have the less work each individual person has to do so more people will get to see a bit of the trial each day.
The English National has its own website with further details about the trial which already has some stalls and trade stands booked.
