Richard Collins: Childhood memories of feeding alpacas in Irish countryside

What’s next... walking with dinosaurs?

Achill Island Alpacas Treks with Bailey and Bruno at Golden Strand, Dugort, Achill Island, County Mayo

My grandchildren went trekking with alpacas on Achill Island last week. They were introduced to two of the South American exotics; Bailey, a cream-coloured one called after the whiskey liqueur, and Bruno, who has a beautiful black coat.

The alpaca, with its large Bambi-like eyes and exquisite eyelashes, is a most endearing creature. Nor is the small bird-beak mouth intimidating to a child. Being up close and personal with such exotic creatures, and feeding them by hand, is an unforgettable experience. John McNamara, their keeper, was assisted by Mandy his lively border collie. The dog, a chaperone and security guard, encircled her charges constantly, keeping them in check.