A Cumbrian solicitor is taking on a different type of trial as he leads a world competition later this year.

Nigel Davis (pictured) is the chair of the organising committee for the 2011 World Sheepdog Trials being held in September.

The event is expected to attract far more than simply one man and his dog, with crowds of 40,000 anticipated for a contest involving 240 dogs from 23 different countries.

Nigel, who works as a farmer as well as being a director at his agricultural law firm, has long been involved in sheepdog trials and predicts possible home success during the tournament.

‘This will be the fourth time it’s been held, and the first in England,’ he said.

‘We have as good a chance as anyone – I’d certainly expect us to finish in the top three.

‘Sheepdog trials are growing in popularity all the time and have been ever since One Man and His Dog was on television - plus there are more young people getting involved now, which is great to see.’