But these creatures, originally from South America, have also become a familiar sight trotting through the Sussex countryside as an unusual alternative to walking the dog.

The Ashdown Forest Llama Park at Forest Row, offers relaxing walks through the forest with a llama companion.

As we discovered, the friendly and inquisitive animals enjoy the two and a half mile walk across the stunning forest, probably even more than the visitors.

Thanks to llama parks, the common misconception of llamas as grumpy, spitting animals is slowly changing.

Owner of the Ashdown Forest Llama Park, Linda Johnson, said: "They are just so gentle and good natured. I think the Llamas reputation for spitting dates from when they were kept in zoos and a llama in a zoo is not a happy llama. They love going out for walks."

For a full report see this week's Mid Sussex Times. Click on the green 'play' button for our video report on the park

For more information on the llama park click here or telephone 01825 712040.