Pupils taking part in a farm project got more than they baa-gained for when these unusual youngsters arrived on the scene.

Lambing started a week early and instead of the expected twin lambs from one ewe, they got triplets - and the new arrivals came out sporting unusual black and white markings.

Lancing College has its own self-supporting farm with a flock of more than 40 ewes plus pigs, goats, chicks and ducks.

Farm manager Derek Cleaver said the lambs had caused quite a stir.

He said: "They are quite a comical sight but everyone has warmed to them. Some pupils waited up till 11.15 on Saturday night to see them being born.

"Others, who have never shown much interest before, have been to see them. And everyone who arrives at the school car park comes to the fence to have a look at them."

The trio - named John, Jenny and Nick by pupils - are the result of a cross between a Jacob ewe and a poll Dorset ram.

Mr Cleaver said: "We had scanned the ewe and it only showed up two lambs so it was quite a surprise when the third arrived. I'm very pleased though."

The farm, regularly welcomes visitors from other schools and is used by college pupils working for their Duke of Edinburgh Award.