The Lincoln Red once thrived on farms in the East of England, but its fortunes have swung as the demands of agriculture shifted during the last century.

Although it was rescued from a critical population slump in the 1970s, it is still among the native breeds on the UK's "at risk" list.

But the current drive towards more sustainable, nature-friendly food production has given the breed a renewed purpose - and sparked hopes for a potential resurgence.

Lincoln Red cattle at Park Farm, Blickling (Image: Sonya Duncan) The animal, characterised by its deep cherry-red coat and lack of horns, is known for its hardiness, docile temperament and ability to grow quickly on a forage diet from natural grassland vegetation.

One Norfolk farmer says this makes it ideal for conservation grazing and a perfect fit for new soil-friendly "regenerative farming" systems - while satisfying growing consumer demand for sustainably-sourced meat.

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