YEE-HA! The National Trust is seeking wannabe cowboys and cowgirls to manage grazing on Studland Heath for the first time in decades.

A full-time cow-herder is being sought to revive tradition and protect some of the UK's most important natural habitats.

Countryside manager David Hodd said: "Up until the early part of the 20th century, cattle were regularly let onto the heath by local farmers who benefited from the extra grazing.

"At that time Studland peninsula was hardly used by tourists.

"In recent years, the role of cattle in creating and maintaining this heathland habitat has been recognised as crucial to nature conservation."

"Cattle prevent the heathland from becoming overgrown with trees. Without grazing animals, the heath would eventually lose most of its rare wildlife and become a more mundane birch, willow and pine woodland."

A 10-kilometre area of Purbeck already boasts more plant species than any other area of the UK.

Mr Hodd added: "This is an exciting project to trial cow-herding in the UK.

"This practice still exists in Eastern Europe and indeed in parts of Holland.

"We want to see whether this practice can be replicated here, which will allow the internationally important nature reserve at Studland to get the ongoing care it needs."

The cow-herder will bring animals onto Studland Heath in the mornings, tending the herd by day and taking cattle to all corners of the heath before returning them to their fields at Greenlands Farm in the evening.

"The advantage of this approach is that as well as increasing grazing, there will be someone with the animals at all times, so if anyone has questions about the animals or Studland there is someone on hand to help," said Mr Hodd.

The charity is looking for someone who enjoys dealing with the public, has exceptional cattle handling skills, enjoys working outdoors in all weathers and is capable and resourceful.

The closing date for applications is Friday, August 22, and all you John Waynes and Calamity Janes can apply by going to ntjobs.org.uk