THE Christmas credit card bills are dropping through letterboxes, the weather is dank and dismal, and the holidays just a distant dream - but on one Bromsgrove farm at least there is a sure and welcome sign that spring is on the way.

Farmer turned midwife Keith Tolley and his wife Eileen have maintained a round-the-clock, seven day a week vigil over their flock of ewes since the first lambs began to arrive just as they were about enjoy their Christmas lunch.

Keith and Eileen have 250 Texel cross sheep on their farm at Brockhill Court near Tardebigge and expect to be kept busy in the lambing shed until the beginning of March.

But the couple accept early mornings and late nights in the cold are part and parcel of the job and never tire of the thrill of seeing a lamb they have helped into the world take its first wobby steps.

Have you noticed any signs of spring being on its way? If you spot something special regarding animal, bird or plant life then let us know or, if you get the chance, send us a picture of what you spot. You can e-mail us at advertiser@midlands.newsquest.co.uk