Collie Chaos event in Wath raises funds for pet rescue

Collie Chaos: John Healey Sheila Yerrell (Photo Credit: Dave Poucher)

The Collie Chaos event was held in Wath by collie owner Sheila Yerrell to raise money to rescue and care for unwanted pets.

MP John Healey opened the meet-up, which included a demonstration by the Sheffield Flyball Team.

The sport involves teams of dogs racing over hurdles.

Gill Batson, who was among those looking on, said: “This is a great sport and lots of cheering from the spectators proved to make each team determined to win.

“There was also a ‘have a go’ session for dogs that have never tried flyball before.”

More than 40 rough collies from across the country - and one owner all the way from New Zealand - met up in the grounds of Wath Hall for the afternoon, raising more than £700 in the process.

Prizes were also handed out for several classes.

Collie Chaos Jean Wild with Lucky and Poppy (Photo Credit: Dave Poucher)

A dog show took place for different classes, and Sheila’s own nine-year-old collie Bribon, who was originally from Cadiz in Spain, took the title of Best Rough Collie, under the expert handling of Matt Anderson.

Peter Vernon and Goldie won the Best in Show title while Eric Lee with Rory took best in show from the fun classes

Event organiser Sheila said: “It went really well and I didn’t have one complaint.

“Some people had come from far away.

“There was one lady, Grace Tibbets, who came from New Zealand and it was quite a shock when she turned up.

“The Flyball team brought a real energy to the event - even a little chihuahua-cross got involved.

“It is mainly for collies and their owners but it’s open to the local community, too.”

There were also representatives from a variety of “dog and pet” organisations, including the South Yorkshire Ambulance who provide a 24-hour emergency service for sick dogs and other pets.

Gill added: “Many thanks to judge Martin Frostick, who had a difficult decision in picking the winners, and all who were involved in the day, from the organisers and volunteers to people who supported the event.”