Alpacas heading to Telford show

Telford's International Centre will play host to the British Alpaca Society's National Show on March 25 and 26, welcoming people from all over the country either running trade stands or entering animals in competitions.

The show is a family-fun day out and all proceeds collected on the door will be donated to Severn Hospice.

Philippa Collett, show co-ordinator, said: "We're thrilled to be back in Telford and supporting such a fantastic local cause.

"Severn Hospice will receive all the money donated at the door on the day and we hope we can help it to continue to provide fantastic care in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and Mid Wales. It's a fun day out for all the family – our alpacas will be on show and there will be outstanding craft and trade stands.

"We will be showcasing some wonderful alpaca products and yarns. We hope lots of craft enthusiasts and weavers come along to see our fabulous alpacas."

The show will also include a national fleece show, competitions and junior handler classes.

There are believed to be about 35,000 alpacas in the UK, kept by owners and breeders who make a living by shearing them periodically and selling off the fleece, which is renowned for its softness. It also comes in a number of different natural colours, with the full spectrum due to be displayed at the Telford event.

The two-day show in Telford is being put on by the British Alpaca Society (BAS), which is dedicated to the welfare of alpacas and the education of their owners in the UK.

The BAS provides information, support and events for alpaca owners, breeders and those interested in alpacas, as well as maintaining the pedigree register for the national herd.

The show runs from 9am to 5pm on Saturday, and 9am to 4pm on Sunday.

The cost of entry is a suggested donation of £2 per person or £5 per family.

Anyone interested in taking on alpacas can join the BAS for help, advice and support. For further information log on to www.bas-uk.com