A South Wales town has launched a search for a shepherd to manage a growing problem with stray sheep that have been blocking roads, eating garden flowers, and even grazing in a local cemetery. Blaenavon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated at the foot of the Brecon Beacons, has seen a surge in sheep wandering uncontrolled after vandals reportedly cut fences on the surrounding hills to access quad bike trails, allowing the animals to escape.
Escalating Issue
Sheep have been observed roaming the streets and causing traffic disruptions after escaping from nearby fields. Independent councillor Nick Horler, representing Torfaen Borough Council, expressed concerns for the animals' welfare. He questioned whether it was time to reinstate a shepherd to address the worries voiced by many community members. Horler described the loose sheep as a 'massive issue' that endangers the animals, which have also been spotted eating garden flowers and grazing in the cemetery.
Community Concerns
Janet Jones, another independent councillor, echoed the call for a shepherd, emphasizing the need to protect the sheep's welfare. She noted that commoners are repairing their fences, but off-roaders and sometimes walkers repeatedly break them. 'People need to be educated,' she added. Labour councillor Mandy Owen suggested that a 'ranger role' could be created to manage the situation. She stated, 'Through the Blaenavon World Heritage Partnership, the council is leading work to explore introducing a new ranger role to support day-to-day management, coordination, and communication regarding stray stock and wider common land issues. This proposal is dependent on partner organisations contributing funding.'
Previous Incidents
Horler previously reported that neighbors had been terrorized by a stray ram whose owner could not be identified. Blaenavon, once a thriving hub during the industrial revolution with coal mines and iron works, is now a popular tourist destination at the foot of the Brecon Beacons.
