WHEN the time came for former commercial director Peter Stoneman, 55, to end a long and successful career in banking, he and his wife Glenda, 52, began planning towards realising a dream of owning land and livestock.

But for a couple who have enjoyed a high-flying and diverse lifestyle that has seen them live in locations such as New York, the standard rearing of sheep and pigs was just not going to suffice. After some brainstorming and a great deal of research, the couple introduced their first herd of alpacas to their sprawling farm near Earlswood.

It has now expanded into a closed-herd business, Amazing Alpacas.

On first sight of an alpaca, one could be forgiven for comparing them with llamas, but after studying their beguiling big brown eyes and studying their camel-like descending motion, it becomes evident that they are descendants of the camel family.

Alpacas originate from South American countries such as Peru and Chile, and were first introduced in the UK as far back as the Victorian era, when they were kept in zoos.

They have since become more popular than one may think, with around 20,000 alpacas being kept in the UK today.

Peter said: "They really are fantastic animals to keep. They are popular because of their docile natures, as they are more likely to run away than attack if they are frightened.

"They are great for people wanting to keep land grazed. Their teddy bear faces and fluffy fleece also make them a big hit with children."

Glenda added: "They do need to be kept in at least pairs, as they are herd animals by nature.

"Their fleece is exceptionally soft and is commonly sold as a raw material, but we breed the animals for sale and have sold to people from all over the country."

The couple now keep around 25 alpacas. They also keep around 200 chickens, selling their eggs locally, and have recently introduced hen boarding through their other business, The Cozy Hen Company.

Looking back at his high-powered career and comparing the thrill of a multi-million-pound deal versus the buzz of helping bring a young alpaca or chick into the world, he says: "This life is so much more rewarding. It really touches the soul."