WARNING to all gardeners around Parkend. This year we see a new type of sheep being bred. They are now capable of jumping four foot high walls into pensioners' gardens.

They had their first taste two weeks ago, nibbling the tops off onions and shallots and potatoes. They've since been back and decimated the rest of the vegetable garden, their favourites being peas, runner beans, cabbage, broccoli among others. Apparently they're not so keen on broad beans, while radishes were tossed aside in what can only be described as an act of wanton vandalism.

The Forestry Commission have been informed about our new super sheep, who the district council suggested we contact. But to date there has been no reply. The parish council at least came to view the damage, but could only log the complaint with all the others.

The Commoners Association came, and after lengthy discussions, said they would sort the problem. Some days later they were good enough to phone back saying the matter was indeed sorted.

Foolishly, we replanted, and, you've guessed it, the incredible jumping sheep were back!

The Commoners Association asked about the expenses incurred. If you are a keen gardener, you will understand that it is not about the loss of money involved. It is about the hard work put into digging and planting, and having the satisfaction of tending a garden, and watching it grow, ultimately savouring all the flavour of your own produce.

You will agree, I'm sure, that compensation cannot be given for the frustration and disappointment of losing a season's growth, when such hard work and time has been put into its fruition.

Maybe my time would be better spent training these sheep for the 2012 Olympics, because I'm sure there must be a potential gold medal winner amongst them.

Levity aside, can anyone help rid our village of this athletic pest? I am now increasing the wall to at least 6 feet. I would love to hear from you of your own experiences, and any thoughts anyone would like to share on the matter.

– Name and address supplied.