A group of North Wales farmers are to launch a new club aimed at promoting a particular breed of dog that is becoming increasingly popular on Welsh farms.
The North Wales Kelpie Club - Clwb Kelpie Gogledd Cymru - will provide a focus for owners of working kelpies to share information and learn more about the breed, as well as highlighting its qualities to a wider audience.
"Working kelpies are not currently given the recognition they deserve in the UK - mainly because there are so few here," says Club Chairman Emrys Williams.
"It is even unclear how many working kelpies there are in this country - hence another need for the club."
Kelpies originate from Australia and have a natural instinct and aptitude in the working of sheep and other livestock - making them particularly suitable for Welsh farms. The breed originated from the intermixing of the progeny of three pairs of 'Working Collies' imported into Australia by three early landholders.
Devotees say the dogs are alert, eager, intelligent and display an almost inexhaustible energy, a marked loyalty and devotion to work. They are also very adaptable and good-natured.
The Club will be launched at the NSA Welsh Sheep Event at Pentrefoelas on May 19. For more information, contact Club Secretary Rhys Jones on 07812 104628 or send an email.
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