The Norfolk Horn

In medieval times Norfolk was one of the most densely populated and prosperous parts of the country.

Norwich was the second largest city in England and the main economic activity of the county and of its prosperity was agriculture - principally wool.

Norfolk of course is famous for its own woollen cloth, Worstead, from the village of the same name.

Almost extinct in 1973 the Norfolk Horn was revived by grading up the Suffolk, Wiltshire Horn and Swaledale to the Norfolk Horn.

The revival of this " Heath" breed means the Norfolk Horn can now be found in very small numbers in Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridge.

It is a medium sized sheep with a long body and legs. Its face and legs are black or dark brown and free of wool.

The fleece on an adult is white with new born lambs being mottled. Both sexes are horned and the horn pattern is an open spiral.

Initially called the New Norfolk Horn, in 1984 the name was reverted to Norfolk Horn.

The breed is still considered almost extinct.

Picture courtesy of The British Wool Marketing Board.

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