THE wintry weather may still be with us, but at one North-East nature reserve the first signs of Spring have arrived.

RSPB Saltholme, near Stockton, has welcomed its first lamb as its ‘Lambing Live’ event gets underway.

‘Lambing Live’ will run throughout April and Liz Morgan, marketing officer at the venue, said: “Lambing season is always a great time of year to visit. And this year it’s even more special, as visitors will be able to see our lambs closer than ever before in our brand new sheep shed.

“Shetland sheep can have a range of interesting markings. With the expert information from our guides, by the end of the event, you’ll know the difference between a Smirslet and a Gulmoget, or a Yuglet and a Skimret. Whatever their colour pattern, they are all extremely cute!”

Guides are hand to provide information and visitors will also be able to suggest names for the newborns.

Saltholme is now looking for name ideas for the first arrival. To put a suggestion forward, visit the Saltholme Facebook page at www.facebook.com/saltholme.

The event is not suitable for expectant mothers and all visitors to the lambing shed will be expected to follow safety instructions.

For more information on the reserve, call the visitor centre on 01642-546625. or visit www.rspb.org.uk/saltholme