A community in North Somerset is rallying to find Banff, a ten-month-old baby alpaca who mysteriously disappeared from his paddock in Goblin Combe, near Cleeve. Banff, one of four young alpacas owned by Tam Harrisson of Chapel Ground Alpacas, was last seen on the evening of Sunday, May 10, but vanished overnight, sparking fears for his safety.
Despite extensive searches through the surrounding woods and pleas on social media, no trace of Banff has been found. Tam, who runs the alpaca farm, remains deeply worried, especially given Banff’s young age and vulnerability. “He’s just the size of a large dog and very friendly,” Tam explains. “If he had simply escaped, he likely would have stayed close or sought out the other alpacas, but there’s been no sign of him whatsoever.”
All gates remained securely shut, and no evidence such as droppings or disturbed foliage has been discovered, heightening suspicions that Banff may have been stolen. “It’s heartbreaking to think someone could have taken him,” says Tam. “He’s due for shearing and needs medication in winter. Being separated from his herd is very distressing for him.”
READ MORE: M5 Exeter Traffic Update: Motorway Closed Both Ways Due to Police-Led Incident
READ MORE: Bath Rugby Player Ratings Following Convincing Victory Over Newcastle Red Bulls
The community has been instrumental in the search efforts, scouring the steep-sided combe and surrounding areas day and night. Tam has even taken the other alpacas and feed buckets into the woods, hoping Banff will be drawn by familiar sights and sounds, but to no avail.
Alpacas are naturally herd animals and tend to stay close to their companions, especially when frightened. “It’s very unusual for one to wander off alone, particularly from a private field with no public access,” Tam notes. If Banff is hiding, he’s likely timid and frightened.
Tam expresses heartfelt gratitude to all those who have helped search and urges anyone who spots Banff or notices an unfamiliar alpaca in the area to come forward. “We want him back safe and sound,” she says. “Any information, no matter how small, could make all the difference.”