A HARDY breed of Hebridean cattle have found a home on an Eden fell thanks to a partnership between Newton Rigg College and Cumbria Wildlife Trust.

The Luing cattle were originally bred on the Hebridean island of the same name and owe their hardiness to their Highland and Beef Shorthorn bloodlines.

Now, Newton Rigg College has taken delivery of 16 in-calf heifers which will graze 500 acres of fell at Eycott Hill, next to the college’s own uplands holding, Low Beckside Farm.

Luing cattle are already proving popular elsewhere in Cumbria and in recognition of the county's contribution to the Luing breed, the society chose to hold its 2014 show at High House Farm, Winster, last August - the first time it has been held outside Scotland.

Newton Rigg’s farms manager Jonathan Fisher said: “The Luings are particularly suited to the uplands, being a hardy breed which can live out all year round and cope with adverse weather conditions.

"Our other beef herd of Angus cattle winters indoors so the Luings will give students the experience of dealing with an outdoor herd’s needs, such as calving in the spring, and demonstrate the options open to farmers."

The cattle’s arrival is also expected to bring land management benefits, improving the environment for wildlife.

Cumbria Wildlife Trust’s conservation manager David Harpley said: “We have been working to improve the habitat at Eycott Hill for some time now and having the Luings will be a valuable tool. Cattle are selective grazers and their movement helps plants to seed better.”

Newton Rigg is part of Askham Bryan College, the fastest growing land-based college in the country. It is home of the National Centre of the Uplands which leads on uplands education, skills and demonstration.