Woolly additions to Mountfitchet Castle

A RARE breed of sheep is returning to Stansted Mountfitchet Castle after an absence of more than 1000 years. The three South Down sheep – which consist of a mum and two girl lambs – arrived at the 10-acre site last Friday and have settled down and integra

A RARE breed of sheep is returning to Stansted Mountfitchet Castle after an absence of more than 1000 years.

The three South Down sheep - which consist of a mum and two girl lambs - arrived at the 10-acre site last Friday and have settled down and integrated well with the other rescued animals.

A Mountfitchet Castle said: "We are trying to re-establish the ancient breed back at the castle to make the visitors experience as authentic and unique as possible by re-colonising with these sheep which were kept by the Normans in medieval times.

"Along with our other animals which include fallow deer, Jacob sheep, goats, domestic fowl, peacocks and guinea fowl, the new additions will be delighted at being hand fed by our visitors."

The mum is called Molly but her two babies need names and the castle owners are giving away a family ticket for four for the best suggestion.

To enter visit www.mountfitchetcastle.com. The winning entry will be posted on the website on June 1 and notified by letter or e-mail.