Sheep used to maintain ancient grazing rights

A flock of sheep has been enjoying one of Bristol's popular open spaces for the day to help keep an historic grazing law alive.

Three ewes and three lambs joined primary school children and residents on Durdham Down so that local groups and householders could exercise their rights to graze their sheep on the land.

According to the Downs Act of 1861, commoners must tether at least one sheep for one day every five years to keep the privileges alive.

Anna Stevens, from Avon Gorge and Downs Wildlife Project, said: "There's always been a bit of mystery about exactly how often it has to be done – however we go with every five years because it's easy to remember."