Ear muffs plan for sheep

Animals at Cholmondeley Castle should be sporting an unusual fashion accessory at a motoring event next month, according to their owners.

Farmers on the castle estate, in Malpas, near Whitchurch, have joked sheep on the estate should be kitted out with ear muffs because the Pageant of Power event there next month will be so noisy.

In fact, the 20-strong flock will be moved off the estate in time for the festival, on August 9 and 10, but their loving owners have tried out some ear muffs prior to the event just in case.

The Pageant of Power will see past and present cars, boats and planes on show.

Power boats will race on the mere and helicopters are flying in.

James Hall, estate manager, said it was a joke to put ear muffs on the sheep, but with the underlying message the event was going to be noisy.

He said there are about 150 animals on the estate in total which would need protecting during the event.

As well as being “petrol-head heaven”, Mr Hall said the pageant will appeal to the whole family, with champagne, a seafood restaurant, live music and a shopping village.

“Although the focus is inevitably on the cars, boats and planes we have deliberately set out to create an event that anyone will enjoy,” he said.

For more information visit www.pageantofpower.com