A FAMILY still reeling from the horrific slaughter of their pet sheep put on a brave face to take part in a school fete.

Frank and Diane Heap had planned to take both their prize-winning Wensleydale Rams, Knuckles and Tails, to St John's Junior School garden fete at the weekend.

But Tails was forced to entertain the children alone after the sickening day-light attack on his half brother last Thursday afternoon (June 13) during which Knuckles was butchered with a sharp instrument.

The couple's youngest children, eight-year-old David Heap and seven-year-old Donna, had reared the ram from birth and were heartbroken to hear he had been murdered.

Talking from the family home in Barkerhouse Road, Nelson, Mrs Heap said: "Although we were all upset by the attack we decided to go ahead with the school fete.

"They were both pedigree sheep and went to all the county show and community events. All we can hope for now is that somebody comes forward with information about the slaughter."

Despite the tragedy the fete was a success and raised more than £1,000 for school funds.

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