Little lambs, who made thee? (From Gazette & Herald)

Little lambs, who made thee?

LAMBING season has come late - or early - at one Ryedale farm, where the latest lambs in living memory have been born.

Four lambs have appeared at Kirkdale Manor Farm, in Nawton, near Helmsley, to farmer Dougie Blacklock's surprise.

Born to two ewes, the lambs were completely unexpected.

"I walked into the field, and there they were," said Dougie, 33.

"It's the first year we have had this farm, but I'm sure that's not usual," he said.

Two lambs were born initially and then two more appeared three days later.

"They seem perfectly healthy, but I will definitely be keeping a close eye on them.

"I think by the time winter comes we may have to bring them in to look after them.

"But it's been a happy surprise for us, it's nice to see it again," he said.

"I have certainly never heard of any this late before, and everyone we have told has been really surprised.

"I think it's something of a freak, but the lambs themselves look great."

Updated: 11:48 Wednesday, October 01, 2003