This morning, farmer Clive Hibberd, delivered 5 of his shearling ewes to Cooper’s Meadow, much to the excitement of a crowd of children and onlookers. The sheep, who are last year’s lambs, will enjoy their summer holiday in Cooper’s Meadow munching the rich vegetation until the beginning of October.
Anna Forbes, Senior Project Officer and Volunteer Co-ordinator for ARK (Action for the River Kennet) said, “We are delighted to have the sheep back to continue the long term conservation grazing regime. They are so popular with the community and visitors to the town. We are very grateful to Clive for his support.”
Clive commented, “The sheep will do a bit of good in Cooper’s Meadow. There’s not so much weed and more grass this year which is excellent.”
Richard Spencer-Williams, Marlborough’s Town Clerk, said, “Marlborough Town Council are pleased to see the sheep back once again this year. Not only do they help keep our grass cut they are also really popular with visitors of Cooper’s Meadow, and especially of interest to the children in their early years. Thanks to Clive the sheep owner, and Anna and ARK for helping facilitate this.”
Dog owners are reminded that dogs must be on the lead at all times in this area. A couple of years ago there was an unfortunate incident when a dog, off the lead, attacked a ewe who needed a weekend of treatment from a vet.
ARK volunteers have been trained as ‘sheep lookers’ and will be checking the sheep everyday as well as checking the fencing and removing any litter from the meadow. Please do not feed the sheep.
If you have any concerns please contact Marlborough Town Council Grounds Manager on 07715639827, out of hours 07593584095 or Clive, the sheep owner, on 07437454728.
Marlborough Cricket – results from last weekend (20-21 July)
