A DESPERATE plea has gone out to find Lloyd the Llama who disappeared from Shenley Farm, Headcorn, , near Maidstone, during the flooding two weeks ago.

His owner, Jamie Freeman, fears the worst. He said: "We think Lloyd must have gone down the River Beult and drowned but perhaps he washed up somewhere and somebody else is looking after him."

Lloyd was bred on the farm, one of 11 llamas used by Mr Freeman to guard his sheep against foxes. Lloyd, a neutered male, is "grey-white" and valued at about £600.

Mr Freeman said: "He was a jumper and could jump any fence, but he generally chose to stay with us to be near the other llamas. We have searched for tracks on all the land around here, but without trace."

Even if Lloyd has drowned, Mr Freeman would still like to hear of his fate. Ring him on 01622 890226.

Incidentally, Mr Freeman and his llamas will be featured on BBC1's Countryfile programme with John Craven this Sunday, December 1.