King Charles III needs a new shepherd for his sheep

King Charles III He is looking for a shepherd to help him look after his 2,000 royal sheep, but he must have his own dog.

Sandringham Estate is seeking an experienced shepherd with at least two years’ experience to look after the monarch’s flock of 2,000 Aberfields.

The Sandringham Estate farm has 200 hectares of permanent pasture for rearing sheep and shorthorn cattle.

The criteria to become the King’s new shepherd include having your own working dog, a full and clean UK driving licence and the right to live and work in the UK.

A job posting on their website says: “Daily herding will make up the majority of this role, with some assistance with winter housing and spring calving of the beef herd.

“A passion for farming, an open mind and a willingness to learn and develop alongside an innovative system will be key to success in this role.”

The successful candidate is said to be a motivated team player and “able to maintain the highest standards of animal welfare”.

He adds that they must have their own working dog or dogs and a full driving licence.

The farm’s sheep, which are raised organically, are used to produce “finished lamb for a premium retail supermarket.”

Their numbers increased during the reign of then-Prince Charles in 2019, as their droppings would help fertilise the sandy soil.

The King has revolutionised farming on the 21,000-acre estate, which he inherited following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in September 2022.

As well as introducing organic farming methods, he has also reintroduced rare breed livestock, planted hedgerows and helped breed rare birds.

The job posting suggests the new pastor will have to adopt the monarch’s philosophy when it comes to caring for the land.

He says: “A passion for livestock, an open mind and a willingness to learn and develop alongside an innovative system will be key to success in this role.”

The deadline for applications is September 27.