In pictures: ‘Wave’ hello to Skye herd

Click on the multimedia link to open a gallery of Jane Barlow’s photos »

THE last herd in Scotland to keep to the traditional island method of swimming out to winter pasture took to the waves yesterday.

Skye crofter Iain MacDonald drove his 20-strong herd of Limousin Aberdeen Angus cows to Stenscholl island, where they will enjoy thick green grass for the next three months.

In his younger days, Mr MacDonald used to swim with the herd to make sure none of his precious animals lost their way during the quarter-mile swim. Now, aged 79, he makes the journey by boat.