TAKING centre stage in a massive theatre production just weeks after giving birth might sound baa-rmy, but Big Ears the sheep is taking it all in her stride.

The eight-year-old ewe will be leaving her two lambs behind every night for about a fortnight next month as she stars in Hoghton Tower's open-air production of As You Like It.

Director Dean Taylor decided the only way he could make the character Corin the shepherd credible would be if he was accompanied by a live sheep.

Dean said: "We made widespread inquiries around Hoghton, and the owner of Big Ears, Sheila Whittle, willingly came forward to the rescue."

Big Ears' rise to fame is a tragic tale. She was orphaned as a lamb and hand-raised by Mrs Whittle, becoming a firm favourite for the role.

Mrs Whittle said: "She is perfect for the role. She happily walks on a collar and lead is quite used to people and will not be fazed by the responsibility of working with actors."

Mrs Whittle herself is no stranger to orphaned lambs, taking several in every year, with six being raised from this year's lambing season.

The production runs from June 10-27 and tickets are available from 01254 851185.