EASYCARE GIMMERS and younger ewes at Tordarroch, Strathnairn, in the hills to the south of Inverness, pictured here under the watchful eye of Joe the dog.

Owner Willie Forbes, of Milton of Farr said he was puzzled why Easycare sheep seem to be the forgotten breed in Scotland – and waits in vain each week for some mention of the breed in The Scottish Farmer. Wait no longer Willie!

The key thing is that Easycares shed their wool, which is a real plus when you consider how much valuable time and money is spent each summer shearing sheep to produce wool for minimal, or no, commercial benefit to farmers.

Their fleeces are not as thick as those of other breeds, notes Willie, but are sufficient to see them through a harsh Highland winter at almost 700 feet above sea level.

The breed also lamb with minimal assistance, he said: "Lambing has been a piece of cake since I started using Easycare tups on my north country Cheviots almost a decade ago, with very few requiring assistance. Ewes are milky and make excellent mothers. Lambs are left entire - no rubber rings used.

"As for lamb prices, my best lambs were only £4 short of the top price (for all breeds) at the store lamb sale at Longtown in September this year. So no financial disadvantage over any other breed I've used in the past.

"They might not suit every situation and farm type but they have been a real bonus to me in helping to make my farm more profitable. I can't recommend the breed highly enough and trust that, before long, Easycare sheep will become more widely used across Scotland."