FIRST it was a llama - now it's a donkey.

A plan by Malvern Hills Conservators to use a llama to protect its sheep has been abandoned and the use of a donkey instead is now being investigated.

Richard Graves, chairman of the Conservators, told its board meeting last week that he had spoken to llama experts at the Royal Show.

They told him there was no guarantee the animal would behave.

"But they said, 'What about a donkey?' They would provide some measure of protection and we've a tradition of donkeys on the hills. I believe it might be worth borrowing one and trying it," Mr Graves said.

Not all Conservators were keen. Sue Adeney said: "Donkeys can kick or bite. Any animal that might protect other animals might be putting the public at risk."

But the board voted in favour of holding a trial should the Conservators' shepherd agree.