A flock of sheep accused of frightening visitors at a cemetery in North Wales has been given a reprieve after locals rallied to support the animals.
The black ewes, which were brought to Mount Road Cemetery in St Asaph, Denbighshire, two years ago to help keep grass and weeds under control, faced an uncertain future after a visitor raised concerns about their behaviour.
The sheep, which were raised as pets and are unafraid of people and dogs, came under scrutiny after one visitor became alarmed by them and later shared her concerns on social media.
Some locals claimed the animals had become overly friendly and could be intimidating when approaching visitors.
One woman alleged the sheep had attempted to headbutt and ram people visiting family graves, warning the encounters could be unsettling, particularly for young children.
Black lamb. Shutterstock
However, cemetery co-ordinator Duncan Cameron said the sheep posed no real danger and were simply looking for food and attention.
"They can be a bit in your face," he admitted, comparing the two-year-old animals to teenagers. "They naturally seek feed and attention."
Following the complaint, cemetery staff initially considered removing the flock. But Cameron said plans changed after a wave of support from local residents.
"There was a torrent of support for the sheep," he said.
Many residents praised the animals, saying they had become a beloved part of the cemetery. Supporters said children enjoyed visiting them, while some elderly people living with dementia found comfort in their presence.
One local wrote: "Don't sell them. My son loves them." Another added: "Leave the sheep alone."
Others insisted the animals were harmless, with one resident saying: "I walk through the cemetery twice a day and they are no bother at all."
After what Cameron described as a "vote of confidence from the people", the decision was made to allow the sheep to remain.
The animals also play a practical role in maintaining the cemetery's sprawling grounds. Cameron said the site contains around 700 graves, making it difficult to manage without their help.
"Instead of us smashing our mowers against the grave stones, the sheep nibble around them so neatly," he explained.
To help visitors who may feel uncomfortable, notices have been placed at cemetery entrances advising people to clap their hands or raise their voices if the sheep approach too closely.
"If you do that they'll just head on," Cameron said.
For now, the sheep appear to have won over the majority of locals and will continue grazing among the graves they have helped maintain.
