A CUMBRIAN sheep farmer has bought a two-year-old sheep dog for what is believed to be a world record price of 4,100 guineas (£4,305) virtually 1,000gns more than the previous record.

The black-and-white bitch, Floss, was sold by Tom Lawrenson, 20, of Walmsley Fold Farm, Brindle, near Chorley, at the late autumn sale of working sheep dogs at Craven Cattle Marts' Skipton Auction Mart on Friday.

The buyer, who wishes to remain anonymous for fear of the animal being stolen, says he will be working his new acquisition with his flock rather than in the trials arena.