"Best of British Breeds" Sweater: The Herdwick

THE WOOL: This unique sweater has been knitted here in the heart of Scotland using undyed, natural raw organic wool, ethically sourced, sheared and spun in the UK from a selection of unique native breeds. The fibre has been processed using traditional time-honoured techniques with an emphasis on sustainability and a low environmental impact. The absence of any dyeing process allows the natural colours, nuances and shades of each "Best of British" breeds to be reflected in the finished garment.

THE HERDWICK: Herdwick are a native breed from the valley and fells of the Lake District. Descendants of the "Northern Pintail" group, they are thought to have been introduced to Britain over 5,000 years ago. Selective breeding over the centuries has created a sheep ideally suited to the tough climate of an open fell. Breed characteristics include a heavy dense fleece and a "wild and feral" homing instinct referred to as "heafing" enabling Herdwicks to freely graze unfenced common fell ground.