A PAIR of pet llamas stranded in a field because of foot and mouth restrictions may soon be young parents.

With nothing to do all day but stare at a herd of grazing sheep, it was perhaps inevitable nature would take its course, says Catherine Thieffrey, the owner of the male llama, Bouncer.

"Bouncer was too young to be gelded before the restrictions were imposed," she said.

"And because of what's happened I haven't been able to get a vet in to have him done.

"We suspect his mate Molly, who is the same age, is pregnant, but we won't know for sure for a few weeks yet."

The listless llamas, who live with a five-year-old male llama, Murphy, and some sheep, have not left their Helmsley field for 12 months.

"We have been wanting to take them out for a walk for so long and we still are not allowed," said Catherine.

"It is very frustrating and it is sad because they are so bored. When you approach them they come up to you and hum. It is heartbreaking."

Though general foot and mouth restrictions were lifted in North Yorkshire at the end of last year, Catherine and her neighbour Anne Stewart, who owns Murphy and Molly, have been told they need licences to move them.

Despite their claim that foot and mouth is rare in llamas, as cloven-hoofed animals they are subject to restrictions.

"We were really happy when they announced the end of the restrictions last year," said Catherine.

"But when we made inquiries we were told we needed to apply for a movement licence.

"We have applied which has involved us setting out exactly where we intend to take them.

"We are still waiting to hear from DEFRA whether we are allowed."

Once they have permission Catherine and Anne intend to take the llamas for picnics and visits to Helmsley town centre.

"It's great taking them out because you can load your picnic on their backs and they enjoy the exercise," said Catherine.

"When we would take Murphy into the town centre people were very curious and he likes the attention."

A spokesman from North Yorkshire Trading Standards confirmed movement restrictions would prevent the llamas being moved without a licence.

Updated: 11:17 Thursday, February 21, 2002