THE increasing popularity of the Ryeland is shown by the record entry this year at the annual breed show and sale at Ludlow Market on Saturday.

Anne Jones, secretary of the Ryeland Flock Book Society, said that there was not only a record entry of sheep but also of exhibitors.

Entries were from far afield, including the north of Scotland, the north of England and South Wales.

The show starts at 9.30am and the sale at 12.30pm.

"Catalogues are in demand from a cross-section of locations, which shows the continual interest and demand for Ryelands," said Mrs Jones.

She said the Ryeland was increasing in popularity because it was a compact sheep excelling in flesh and wool.

It was particularly noted for its docility, which tended for easy management and handling.