Sheep have returned to Avon Meadows for the first time in three years but it comes with a warning to dog owners.

Traditionally, sheep have been used as a natural way of promoting biodiversity on the site however they were unable to do so in 2019 due to flooding.

Then, in 2020, the decision was made not to use the sheep on the meadows due to the area being a popular site for exercise during the various lockdowns.

Liz Etheridge, wildlife sites project officer for Wychavon District Council, said: “It’s wonderful to see the sheep back on Avon Meadows.

"Using them for grazing is a great way of managing vegetation and creating a healthier more diverse habitat on the meadows to help the rest of nature to thrive.

"If the public could support this by keeping their dog on a lead when walking around the site, then we’d really appreciate it.”

By allowing sheep to graze for a few weeks at this time of the year, they are able to remove nutrients which prevent grass from growing and promote wildflower growth.

Additionally, sheep poo returns carbon to the soil to improve its health.

Around 180 sheep have been moved to the site, on loan from a nearby farm in Peopleton.

They will be roaming the meadows and so dogwalkers have been asked to keep their pets on leads at all times.