The Teeswater is fairly hardy and can cope with most conditions. Animals are very long lived and ewes can produce lambs at up to 10-12 years old. They are a very prolific breed and a flock under the correct management can achieve lambing percentages of 250%. Lambs are born medium sized and quick to rise. The Teeswater breed is native to the Teesdale area of County Durham. The wool of the Teeswater is in demand with hand spinners and a possible small scale enterprise could be created selling the wool or making wool products. Staple length 20-30cm. Fleece weight 4- 6kg. Quality 32s-36s. The principal use for the Teeswater is in the production of a crossbred ewe, the Masham. The Masham is the result of a Teeswater ram a hill breed ewe. The resulting Masham ewe is prolific, highly maternal, hardy and well able to produce good lambs when put to a Terminal sire. The Mule has become the dominant halfbred in the British sheep industry but the Masham would be a good choice for ewe breed on a lowland sheep enterprise.