One of the Highlands’ best loved duos move onto heavenly pastures
Strathspey has lost one of its best loved double acts.
Sadly Murdo the Highland Coo and his pal Buster the sheep departed for pastures new yesterday
The pair have been the unofficial guardians of Castle Roy on the outskirts of Nethy Bridge for the past seven years.
They have been the subject of thousands of photographs capturing the quintessential picturesque Highland scene with the historic 12th Century ruin as the backdrop.
Richard Eccles, chairman of the Castle Roy Trust, told the Strathy that those connected with the landmark were heart-broken by the pair’s passing.
He said: “Seven years ago Murdo bounced into his role as Guardian of Castle Roy and has been a firm favourite globally.
“As a calf he was hand-reared as he suffered with joint illness and consequently had arthritis ever since.
“We were told he would be lucky to get him to adulthood and he would never see double figures.
“He did and had more than 500 people attend his 10th birthday party in June, earlier this year.”
Mr Eccles continued: “Murdo has really struggled the last few winters and the vets advised us that he wouldn't go through another winter pain free.
“He has had a wonderful autumn but sadly left us on Monday morning at the start of the winter weather.
“With his loyal pal Buster, who had also reached a very great age alongside him, they made their journey together as their bond was so deep.”
Mr Eccles explained: “Buster was very old and not walking well. He slept most of the day - in fact so much so that we were getting three to four calls a week saying 'your sheep's dead’.
“Without Murdo he would have had a pretty miserable time.”
He added: “Farewell Murdo and Buster and thanks to everyone including those who sponsored him and all the amazing support we have had from one and all.
“There are way too many people to mention but we are thankful to all.”
Murdo’s 10th birthday celebrations were very much a community occasion.
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The event featured a variety of stalls, many offering unique items related to Highland Cattle and some of the felted pieces were even crafted from Murdo’s own hair, making for special keepsakes.
Murdo was even presented with his own special cake made by Joan Maclean, of Caithness, as the large crowd enthusiastically sang Happy Birthday whilst the star turn munched his way through his treat.
Castle Roy is a 12th Century fortress set on a small glacial mound to the north of Nethy Bridge. It has been associated with the clans of Mar, Comyn, Stewart and Grant.