AN EVENT which two years ago attracted sheep shearers from all over the UK and abroad is being repeated at Throwleigh.

The charity speed shearing competition raised £2,000 in 2011 and attracted 500 spectators. This year it will be held on August 25 at Throwleigh Common, rather than at the Throwleigh Arms, to cater for more people.

The knockout competition will be followed by live music, a hog roast barbecue and the bar will be open from 5pm when the event starts. All money raised will be split between the Devon Air Ambulance and Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Last time 26 shearers battled it out to win and organiser Steve Alford is hoping it will be as popular this year: 'We had Kiwis and Aussies and Irish lads taking part as well as our local lads and some from Lincolnshire and all over the South West,' he said.

'We have managed to get some sponsors for the competition so there will be a reasonable amount of prize money.'

Rebecca Jordan's daughter Charlotte was given life saving treatment at Great Ormond Street Hospital after she suffered lung failure resulting from a virus and asthma and has had cause to use the air ambulance twice.

'Charlotte spent two weeks at Great Ormond Street,' said Rebecca.

'It's a place no-one should have to go but it is really an amazing place to have been.'

If the weather turns bad there is a large shed on site which will cater for the competitors and spectators. The judges will be from the British Woolboard so the shearing has to be tip-top

The charge will be £2.50 for adults and children will be free. For more information contact Steve Alford on 07944 056702.