The National Qualifier Sheepdog Trials welcomed their youngest competitor to Pennywell Farm, near Buckfastleigh on Wednesday, August 3.

In the company of a record number of entrants, 13-year-old Matthew Carter from Delabole left a lasting impression on the judges, demonstrating superb teamwork with his dog Blue.

The event, 'Open Driving Sheepdog Trialling', organised by the Devon & Exmoor Sheepdog Society, challenges the skills that the dogs are required to use every day of their working life.

Whilst he wasn't amongst the eventual qualifiers, Matthew will be able to take great confidence from his performance into future competition.