VISITORS flocked to Lambing Sunday at Collaton Down to see ewes and lambs and find out more about sheep farming.

The Lambing Sunday event, which took place last month at Collaton Down Farm near Blackawton, saw farmer Phil Bond explained what was involved with looking after his flock.

Phil, who lambs around 500 ewes a year and sells his produce through local farmers’ markets, allowed visitors to look around the pens and conducted a farm walk to see the older lambs and look at some of the environmental work being undertaken.

The farm has engaged in a Countryside Stewardship Scheme, which involves repairing hedges and enhancing wildlife habitats, as well as reinstating an orchard.

Farmer Phil Bond said: ‘It was great to see so many of the public interested in what happens here, although the weather was very cold people wrapped up and came here to ask look around, ask any questions and enjoy a farm walk.’

Visitor Jo Philpott said: ‘Thanks Farmer Phil Bond for a wonderful day. Nice to see so many youth outdoors, enjoying an iPad-free afternoon, inspired by the feeding and caring of lambs.

‘The animal husbandry talks were interesting and informative and watching the birth of the twins was a real privilege.

‘The tea and cakes - of which I had four... were much appreciated and an essential feature of the day. Please have another lambing Sunday next month!’

This event was a part of a series organised by the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Unit to help people understand more about the farming landscape around them.

Diane Lethbridge from South Devon AONB said: ‘It was so nice to see the look on the children’s faces when they were able to get close to the lambs and feel their wool for themselves.’

The next farm event is on Sunday, May 15, at East Soar Farm, Malborough, which is being staged jointly with the National Trust. Further information can be found on the South Devon AONB website: www.southdevonaonb.org.uk