THERE was much dashing about, whistling and barking of curious orders in thick accents you could cut with a knife.
But the best bit was the scampering hither and thither of man’s best friend at Pennywell Farm outside Buckfastleigh.
Yes, the National Qualifier Sheepdog Trials were underway at the popular tourist venue last week.
Visitors were treated to a breathless display of rounding up by more than 40 super-intelligent dogs with more energy than an Olympic athlete and more guile than a successful politician.
The grand spectacle, played out under grey skies and occasional drizzle from the heavens, was organised by the Devon and Exmoor Sheepdog Society.
The annual event has been going strong for more than 20 years.
The fun and games with willing and unwilling balls of wool on legs continued through the day – which on this occasion was a Wednesday.
For images, see this week’s Mid-Devon Advertiser [5.8.16].