RYTON POOLS Country Park is set to keep a flock of Hebridean sheep which are helping boost the parks biodiversity, for another decade.
Shepherd Dale Huddlestone introduced his sheep to the park last year, which have proved to be popular with park visitors.
The sheep, known as ‘Hebs’, Hardy Economical Black Sheep, have doubled in numbers, from 50 to 100.
The flock won breed male champion at the national show as well as rosettes at the Royal Three Counties, Staffordshire County and Royal Cheshire shows.
Dale said: “We’ve had a really successful start to this project at Ryton Pools and from a biodiversity standpoint we are seeing the benefits already.
“Hebridean sheep are popular for conservation grazing and ideal for carrying out the work required to support the conservation project.
“The Hebs have definitely been a hit with people visiting the park too and it has been great to see so many people interested in the flock.
“The flock is continuing to grow too, as we have had a positive year of breeding, we let some of the ewes lamb here this year, which has been successful with no human intervention other than the usual welfare checks.
“I’ve spent time with my family at the park over the years and it’s great to be able to have a positive impact on such an important space for the region.”
Dale signed a letting agreement extension with Warwickshire County Council, through its managing agent Warwickshire Property Management Ltd (WPM).
Coun Heather Timms, portfolio holder for environment, climate and culture, said: “The sheep are part of one of multiple biodiversity projects taking place across Warwickshire County Council that bring us closer to our net zero targets as well as preserving our county’s natural beauty and wildlife.”
