Looking for an unusual UK festival this summer? Head to the annual Sheep Racing Festival on the Channel Island of Sark. From 17th-19th July, the tiny island in the English Channel holds an 'Ascot Day' and 'Newmarket Day' with two jam-packed days of sheep racing.

With all the refinement of Ascot, Sark's Sheep Racing weekend assumes the character of a prestigious race meeting.  In between the races the punters place bets with 'Dodgy Dave' or retire to the Baa for a consolation drink. There are six races per day each featuring six runners. Local businesses sponsor the races and take temporary ownership of the sheep, conjuring up witty race and sheep names. As well as sheep racing, the festival features a variety of stalls and a children's play area.

Getting there: Channel Islands Direct offers a three night stay on Guernsey from £349 per person, including a day trip to Sark during the Sheep Racing Festival. The cost includes return flights from London Gatwick, return transfers, three nights accommodation at the 3* La Villette Hotel with breakfast and a day trip to Sark with return ferry crossings. For bookings: www.channelislandsdirect.co.uk/ 08444 937 095  

For further information on the festival visit: www.sark.co.uk/events

-Ends-

For any press enquiries please contact Jules Ugo or Amelia Astley Birtwistle on firstname@lotus-uk.co.uk or call the office on 0207 953 7470