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Traditionally a sign that spring is on its way, these two tiny Portland lambs put in a slightly early appearance when they were born on Sunday at the council-run country estate's Home Farm.

While the winter temperatures might be a little on the chilly side for two spring lambs they do not have too much to bleat about as they are kept indoors and are attracting lots of attention from staff and visitors.

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But they had better enjoy it while it lasts because they will soon be joined by lots of other woolly friends.

More Portlands are due to be born any day and the farm's flocks of Norfolk Horns, White-faced Woodlands, Kerry Hills and Wensleydales will be lambing throughout February, while Boreray lambs will be born in April.

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Shelley Rogerson, farm manager, said: "New born lambs are always popular with visitors and we try to spread lambing out for that reason.
"These two are getting lots of attention from everyone."

As entry to the farm is free, visitors keen to see the lambs can be sure they are not being fleeced.

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