An animal activist group is urging a Dorset sex offender prison to employ inmates as ‘Carrot Wardens’ and ‘Potato Stewards.’

The request comes following a public notice published by the Ministry of Justice which is seeking a shepherd to look after animals on Portland on behalf of HMP the Verne.

The 'shepherd' will be required to transport and graze 15 sheep on the grassland for conservation purposes between November 2024 and March 2025.

However, campaign group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) have hit out, saying: “Instead of using sheep as ‘lawnmowers,’ The Verne could give inmates the opportunity to serve as wardens of the land, cultivating sustainable, healthy produce like carrots.”

They branded these roles as ‘Carrot Wardens’ and ‘Potato Stewards.’

PETA suggest that the Ministry of Justice could ‘use the land to farm vegan-friendly produce instead’ of homing a flock of sheep.

The grassland in question is 2.5 hectares owned by HMP the Verne.

Jane Tredgett, PETA’s Farming and Corporate Projects Liaison said: “Becoming carrot wardens would boost their mental health, allow them to develop practical skills, and pique their interest in non-violent occupations.”

PETA have sent a letter via email expressing their concerns to the Ministry of Justice.

Notable former prisoners include the notorious glam rock star Gary Glitter, who was sentenced to 16 years in prison for sexual offences, he was incarcerated at The Verne until his release on licence in February 2023 -Gary Glitter was recalled to prison for violating his license conditions a month later.

John Patrick Hannan was also sentenced to serve time at the prison but, after a 1955 escape, has set the world record for the duration of any inmate to remain a fugitive.

It is understood that having sheep on prison-owned land is not common practice within the Ministry of Justice, however Hydebank Wood Young Offenders’ Centre in Belfast is home to a whole load of farmyard animals including around 25 sheep, thousands of bees, a pony, two goats and a flock of chickens.

The Echo contacted the Ministry of Justice for a response; however, they declined to comment.