Philandering ewes provide early start to sping lambing

After a hugely successful exercise last year, Herefordshire sheep farm, Whyle House Lamb, is opening its doors again every afternoon until Sunday 11th April from 2 to 5pm daily, for children and their families to experience sheep farming first hand.

“We normally know fairly precisely when the first lambs will arrive”, says farmer Andy Offer but this year two sets of twins arrived unexpectedly. “They are also jet black and we don’t produce black lambs here so some funny business has been going on. We think a neighbour’s tup must have got through the fence – or maybe our ewes got out but either way, we’ve had an early surprise here at Whyle House Lamb”.

The farm, run by husband and wife team, Andy and Frances Offer, currently carries 90 ewes and aims to take delivery of around 160 lambs. Andy’s reasons for opening to visitors: “Allowing children the opportunity to experience firsthand the very first breath of a new lamb’s life which is magical. Seeing new life is an amazing privilege and one that we love to share with family and friends.”

The sheep farm hopes children and their parents will take the opportunity to speak with Andy and Frances about their lambs, their farm and about their way of life and discuss with them their sheep farming ethos of health, wellbeing and quality of life for their flock.

Set in the heart of the beautiful Herefordshire countryside, children and parents will be able to experience the thrill of getting up close and personal with mother and baby lambs, with the

farm’s first new arrival expected anytime from Saturday 20^th March.

Visitors can just turn up but it is helpful if they let us know they’re coming by calling 01568 750543. It’s also a good idea to call to make sure there are lambs to see. There is no charge for the visit.

For more information about Whyle House Lamb please visit the website at www.whylehouse.co.uk

17/03/2010