Charlie and Patricia Mashman discovered Alpacas in 1995, and set up an alpaca breeding farm soon after. Not only did they fall in love with the gentle animal itself, but saw how they could be used to produce quality garments which are a hit with customers. The Mashman's now make clothing and homewear items from the fleece and skins of their farmed alpacas.

Patricia says that the fleece of the alpaca - which gives perfect insulation from heat or cold - makes for more appealing and comfortable clothing because sheep's wool has an irritating "prickle factor"!