Sheep ready for steeplechase race

A flock of sheep are in training for the races

A flock of sheep is putting in some last-minute training before taking part in a weekend of steeplechase racing.

A total of 14 sheep will take part in several 100yd (91m) races at Honeybrook Victorian Farm and Country Park, near Wimborne, Dorset, over the weekend.

Animal handler John Maidment has been training the animals to jump hurdles and keep a straight course.

He said they enjoyed the exercise and a few extra treats: "The sheep don't mind at all," he added.

"We're training them by encouraging them to go to a particular person when they are called and giving them special treats.

"They recognise individuals and become familiar with their calls.

"When the race starts they tend to leap forward in different directions or simply go nowhere at all - this makes it a most hilarious and exciting event.

"No-one can tell what's going to happen."

Owners of the winning sheep will receive half of the money raised by the event, while the rest will go to charity.