THOUSANDS of visitors will flock to Castle Howard this week for the English National Sheepdog Trials.

It will be the first time the trials, which take place on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, will be held in Yorkshire for nine years. They will see the best dogs in sheepdog trialling come together from across the whole of England to win one of 15 places in the national team, which will in turn go on to represent England in the International Trials, held in Wales later in the year.

Ian Murdoch, a full-time working shepherd from Ryedale who has qualified for the England team twice before, will be there with his two dogs Bob, eight, and Ben, four.

He said: "Both are capable of doing it. It’d be great to do it again. The last time was in 2000, and it’d be all the better to qualify here in Yorkshire, among friends and family."

Mr Murdoch has been a shepherd since taking up the post at Fridlington Farms 30 years ago. Sheep numbers have built up over the years to about 3000 ewes, and Mr Murdoch says having good working dogs is a must.

The traditional skills are also being kept in the family. Three years ago Mr Murdoch's daughter Rachel competed in the Young Handlers competition at the International Trial in Ireland.

He added: "Perhaps it was being born at lambing time, and going to her first trial at two months of age."

The weekend will include an array of family activities, including a craft and demonstration marquee on Saturday and Sunday. There will also be a children’s tent and bouncy castle, and handlers' corner, for those who want to learn more, talk to the experts and find out about their dogs.

Alec Mosey, of the 2016 English National Sheepdog Trials, said: "We are very proud to be hosting the event once again in Yorkshire and could not think of a more stunning backdrop to our venue than the historic and world-famous Castle Howard.

"As well as the trials, we have ensured that there are plenty of activities on offer for the whole family to enjoy in what promises to be an exciting, entertaining and successful event. Our visitors can get a discounted entry to Castle Howard too with the great house, gardens and adventure playground to discover."