VISITORS to a wildlife reserve were treated to sheep shearing demonstrations new and old over the weekend.

RSPB Saltholme played host to the annual event and gave people the opportunity to see the difference between traditional hand shearing techniques and the more modern electric shearing with live demonstrations.

They also learnt more about the reserve with an interactive trail, and took part in a range of traditional ‘summer fete’ activities including a raffle and tombola.

Site manager Dave Braithwaite said: “Our sheep play an essential role in helping to give nature a home on the reserve. By grazing, they help to keep our grassland habitats just right for all kinds of plants and animals to flourish.

“Certain species like Lapwing and Redshank will only nest here if the grass is short enough. These birds have chicks on the reserve at the moment and if visitors are lucky enough they might be able to catch a glimpse of them.”

The event wad also attended by the Durham spinners and weavers guild, while Helen Swan, from The Fine Yarn Shop in Middlesbrough, was doing demonstrations on how sheep fleece is turned into fabric.

For more information on Saltholme, visit www.rspb.org.uk/saltholme or call the visitor centre on 01642-546625.