Fluffy visitors entertain crowds in Telford
Hundreds of fluffy four-legged visitors from across the country descended on Telford as the British Alpaca Society held its annual show.
Now in its second year at the International Centre, the show celebrates everything to do with alpacas – a domesticated animal from South America, which resembles a small llama in appearance.
Since its move to the Telford venue the show has attracted more and more visitors, reflecting the UK's growing interest in the animal.
Organisers were quick to praise Telford for its support and for helping them stage such a successful show. Show co-ordinator Philippa Collette said: "We thought last year's show was hard to beat, but it looks like we have managed to do that this year.
"Telford has proved to be a fantastic site for our show and we are so glad that we brought it here."
There was something for everyone, whether they were experienced keepers who wanted to enter their alpacas in a competition, or novices wondering how to take their first step into alpaca ownership.
Families took their children along to meet the animals – and the only thing you had to remember was that alpacas don't like to be stroked on the head – they prefer to be touched on their neck. The calm temperament of the breed was evident as they waited in their holding pens, seemingly unconcerned by the occasion.
The alpacas are a quiet animal and were barely audible above the hum of electric fans, used to keep the animals cool.
The event raised money for Severn Hospice, with all visitor entry charges being donated to the charity.
