Wales-Indoor Sheepdog trials.

WALES-SHEEPDOG TRIALS HELD INDOORS WITH BIG SCREEN TELEVISION.

Hill farmers are normally a hardy bunch but now they are getting a little comfort - their latest sheepdog trials are being held indoors.

The idea is to give spectators a chance to see their shepherding skills at closer quarters.

A dozen competitors from across Wales are flocking to Pontrhydfendigaid, Ceredigion in what is thought to be the UK’s first indoor trials.

"This will be a first for the sport," said pavilion manager Owain Schiavone.

Some of Wales’ top shepherds will battle it out for the Berthlwyd crystal bowl at Bont Pavilion, Pontrhydfendigaid, near Aberystwyth.

Hundreds of people are expected to attend shepherds battle it out for the Berthlwyd crystal bowl at Bont Pavilion near Aberystwyth.

Not baaad - sheep inside the pavilion near Aberystwyth

Mr Schiavone added: "For the first time ever an audience of hundreds will be able to enjoy the sport from the comfort of their seats. "This will be a first for the sport, first staged in Wales in 1873 by entrepreneur R J Lloyd Price of Rhiwlas, Bala. The rules set down by Lloyd Price then exist almost unchanged today."

He said the indoor venture was the brainchild of sheepdog enthusiast Charles Arch.

Mr Arch said: "People will be able to sit or stand, watch a large screen, whatever the weather.

"I came here one day and saw the building empty, I realised there was a lot more room here than i thought and I saw the potential for this kind of event.

"The interest has been unbelievable. They will be able to witness the relationship and partnership between dog and master far closer than usual, and appreciate the special craft involved."