CHURCHINFORD staged its own version of the Grand National on Sunday – but without horses.

A double header of fun saw around 650 spectators watch sheep and pig races.

The animals were put through a strict two-week training regime by farmer Nick Strange ahead of the big day at Beech Hayes Farm.

Although they were put off by the loud cheering of people who had bet on the outcome of the races, food won the day and they were tempted over the various jumps towards the finishing line.

The event, which included a barbecue, raised around £3,500 towards an appeal to buy the freehold of the community shop.

Mr Strange said: “We set up a community shop three years ago in the village hall car park after the village shop closed.

“When developers built a number of houses in the village, they put up money for a village shop, which the community rented.

“We are now buying the freehold and the shop is run by a community interest company and is non-profit making.

“It is run by staff and volunteers and without them a vital community facility wouldn’t survive.”

Photos: Paul Steven.