COUNTRYSIDE character Clarissa Dickson- Wright will be heading to Castle Howard next month for a television spectacular.

For the first time in its history, the BBC's One Man And His Dog will be open to international competitors.

Vets In Practice presenter Trude Mostue will be captaining the continental team, including competitors from Holland, Germany and her own native Norway. But BBC Animal Park presenter Ben Fogle, captaining the West Britain team, has thrown down the gauntlet.

"I became a bit of a sheepdog groupie after my first appearance on the programme last year, and am particularly looking forward to visiting Castle Howard," he said.

BBC's Countryfile presenter John Craven is captaining the remaining team. The celebrity captains will leave the nine sheepdog handlers to do their stuff.

John admitted: "I'd be no good as a contestant - as a non-playing team captain my job is to spur the team to victory." The show will be recorded on July 19 and 20. Members of the public are welcome to watch the filming, which is free of charge.

Normal admission rates apply to Castle Howard.

Updated: 10:22 Friday, June 27, 2003