HERE'S a Christmas surprise for one Craven shepherd. Holly and Ivy were born a week ago - the result of a roving Romeo tup.

The lambs belong to Allan and Janet Harker of Bend Gate Farm, Long Preston.

"Last haytime the tup got into the field and this is the result!" says Allan.

Santa may have ended up delivering more than presents at the dairy farm as eight more lambs were expected this week. The Harkers' 200-strong flock usually produce their lambs in February.

Luckily the farm has plenty of barns to house the early arrivals from the chilly winter winds.