Black Leicester Longwool Sheep

The history of Black Leicester Longwool sheep

The Leicester Longwool is closely related to the new Leicester breed that was developed by Robert Bakewell in the 18th Century. They are the basis of many other longwool breeds and have been influential throughout the world. The coloured sheep have silver grey sides with darker wool around the edges. The wool is long and lustrous, with a shearling fleece of about 25 cm.

These coloured sheep are large but docile. The rams make excellent crossing sires passing the lustre and pattern markings to their lambs. The ewes are milky and lambs grow well.

The fleece of Leicester Longwool sheep

These coloured sheep grow a heavy, lustrous and silky fleece, which is very popular with hand spinners. It is very versatile due to the length of staple and can be spun from the raw fleece. It can also be combed or carded and is used in a number of crafts such as

• knitting
• fleece rug making
• tapestry
• wall hangings
• soft furnishings.

Technical information about the fleece

• Bradford count 40-60
• Micron measurement 37-46
• Average weight 5-6 Kgs
• Staple length 15-20 cms.