Because people mistakingly believe that lamb is more tender than mutton which, provided you cook it correctly, is patently untrue.
But chops aren't actually that good, are they? They're simple to cook but ultimately mostly disappointing. With the possible exception of these f*ck off huge veal chops I used to get in NY which when pan fried with mushrooms were quite divine.
How's things in Dorset? What's your weekly alcohol consumption like nowadays?