Some of north Norfolk's famous Bagot goats have headed south to continue their valuable conservation and habitat-management work.

Eastern Daily Press: The Bagot nanny goats and kids graze the cliffs in Cromer over summer. Picture: DENISE BRADLEYThe Bagot nanny goats and kids graze the cliffs in Cromer over summer. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Copyright: Archant 2018)

The 15 billies have been sent on a long-term loan to heathland near Thetford, on land looked after by Norfolk Wildlife Trust (NWT).

Councillor Sarah Butikofer, Leader of North Norfolk District Council, which owns the goats, said: 'We're delighted that the wildlife trusts see the same potential benefits as we do.

'The goats are a cost-effective way of managing vegetation and vulnerable habitats, and they act as a draw for tourists, too.'

John Milton, NWT's head of nature reserves, said: 'We are grateful to North Norfolk District Council for loaning us the 15 Bagot goats.

'For some time we have wanted to experiment with grazing by goats to deal with bramble and gorse, which are a particular issue on some areas in the Brecks restored to grass heath from forestry.'

The goats spend their summer on Cromer cliff, where they have provided a cheap and easy way to keep the undergrowth under control. Nine nannies and three nanny kids are currently grazing at Salthouse Heath, getting ready for their next shift back at the seaside later this year, and the herd is expected to welcome some new kids in the next few days.