THE popular Staffin Sheepdog Trials are returning next month after an absence of several years, with more than 30 handlers from all over the UK and Europe expected.

And there is also a fresh date for the Staffin Angling Competition, which was postponed earlier this month.

The trials return to Ellishadder common grazings on Friday, July 12 starting at 8.30am. The event was last held in 2019 - which was the 10th year of the trials - with more than £27,000 raised in that time for charity.

Organiser Ian MacDonald, Digg, said: "We hope to have 30 handlers and 50 dogs from Scotland, England, Ireland and Europe and possibly the USA.

"Friday in Staffin is the first trial of the Hebridean Circuit and our judge is Hugh Munro, Inverness. Saturday is at Waternish, then over to Berneray, Uist on Monday; Scarista, Harris on Tuesday and it finishes up on Wednesday in Ness, Lewis. We will be raising money for Cancer Research and the Children's Ward at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness so all donations will be gratefully accepted."

Ellishadder hosts the trials in July.

Meanwhile, The Staffin Angling Competition will now take place on Saturday, June 29 between 9am and 12noon.

There will be prizes for the Heaviest Fish and Heaviest Catch with teas, coffees and snacks provided. Entry is £6 per adult and £3 per child. There will also be a raffle on the day. All proceeds will go towards Sgoil Stafainn Parent Council.

To book a place please email Staffin Harbour Manager Lachie Gillies staffinharbourmanger@gmail.com Life jackets must be worn by all participants and children must be supervised by an adult.