A NEW calf brought an unexpected bonus for caravanners enjoying their first stay of the season at the weekend.

The calf was born recently to the pair of Highland cattle which Herbert and Kathleen Hutchinson received as a wedding anniversary present, five years ago.

Since then the cattle - the only ones of their breed in Weardale, County Durham - have been photographed countless times and also painted by caravanners and other visitors to the dale.

Because of foot-and-mouth restrictions, the cattle have remained in a field across the A689 road on the Hutchinsons' farm, at Eastgate.

"But they are quite happy there," said Mrs Hutchinson. "It is a very trying time for farmers. We are delighted with the new arrival. He is a fine bull calf."

Along with several other static caravan site owners in Weardale, the Hutchinsons have reopened their site after a delayed start to the season because of the epidemic.

Other sites further down the dale - at Wolsingham and Stanhope - have also reopened.

It is hoped that the influx of visitors will help boost business in shops, pubs and cafes in Weardale, which have been badly hit by the restrictions imposed because of the crisis.