This wonderfully white yarn is from the fleeces of a local small flock of Dorset Down, owned by the teenage son of parent sheep farmers .
 
Dorset Down wool has a staple of between 2-4 inches, 50-100 mm and a fibre diameter of about 25-30 microns.  The locks have a distinct and even crimp, a medium lustre and are amazingly soft.  They are fine example of a woollen breed with superb elasticity and loft.  So this yarn will knit into a warm, soft garment, becoming an heirloom to cherish year after year.
 
The Dorset Down was developed in the early 1800s by crossing local, Wiltshire, Berkshire and Hampshire ewes with Southdown rams.
In time a breed was developed that was well suited to the local area and became popular as a terminal sire for commercial flocks.  A breed society was formed in 1904 and the breed was in demand throughout the first half of the 20th century.
In common with the other Down breeds the introduction of foreign breeds such as the Texel and the immense popularity of the Suffolk meant that the number of Dorset Downs dwindled and they are now a rare breed.