Friday November 28th 2025
The Duke of Roxburghe (right) has presented the International Sheep Dog Society with a £10,000 Fallago Environment Fund grant in support of the World Sheep Dog Trial 2026
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
A £10k funding boost will ensure competitors flocking to the Borders next year for the World Sheep Dog Trials are guaranteed an experience to remember.
Organized by the International Sheep Dog Society (ISDS), the event will be staged from Wednesday, September 16 to Sunday, September 20, 2026, at Huntington Farm in Lauder, home of the Runciman family.
The World Sheep Dog Trials is a highly respected event on the global stage, bringing together the best sheepdog handlers and their dogs.
Now the International Sheep Dog Society has been awarded a £10,000 grant from the Fallago Environment Fund to support the delivery of the event.
The Fund shares the benefits of the Fallago Rig windfarm in the Lammermuir Hills with projects that enhance the natural, cultural and built heritage of the Scottish Borders.
Organised every three years, the World Sheep Dog Trials is the most prestigious global event for this traditional sport and brings together more than 300 elite dogs and handlers from 34 countries.
Over 30,000 visitors are expected to attend, generating an anticipated £10 million economic boost for the Scottish Borders.
Representing the Fallago Environment Fund, His Grace The Duke of Roxburghe said: “The World Sheep Dog Trial takes on a special significance in 2026, being hosted in the region where the Border collie originated.
“It will provide a spectacular showcase of the remarkable skills of sheepdogs and handlers and will also highlight centuries-old rural traditions that contribute to the unique identity and landscape of the region.
“The expected economic impact will be tremendously important for our local communities, so we’re delighted that funds generated from the Fallago Rig wind farm just a few miles away can contribute to the success of this exciting event.”
Fiona McMillan, Scottish President, International Sheepdog Society, said: “We are delighted to have grant support from the Fallago Environment Fund for the World Sheep Dog Trial 2026. It will help us enormously in putting on a world class event that showcases the Scottish Borders to the world.
We are thrilled to be able to bring this wonderful event to the Scottish Borders, the home of the Border collie, and are pleased to be working alongside such fantastic hosts in the Runciman family.
“Looking ahead to September 2026, the world trial promises to be a spectacular occasion that celebrates the people, place and heritage of the Borders.”
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