Herd of cows to be released on city meadows

A herd of cattle is to be released on a city meadow this Easter Monday as part of a conservation exercise.

The animals are given free reign on Ronkswood Hill Meadows in Worcester each year to help preserve the local flora.

Worcester City Council described it as "a natural and cost-effective way" of keeping the grass short, which will allow the wildflowers in the area to get enough sunlight.

The authority is asking dog walkers to keep their animals on leads when the cattle are nearby.

The herd of about 20 cattle will consist of breeds including British Blue, Hereford Cross and Angus Cross.

The council said they will help the wildflowers found on the meadows, such as black knapweed, cowslips and bird's-foot trefoil, to thrive.

It added that other benefits would include an increase in the number of butterflies, and improvements to the natural soil environment.

The council's green space manager, Warwick Neale, said: "The cattle will graze at Ronkswood Hill Meadows for around six months to manage the grassland, protecting the landscape and promoting good conditions for wildflowers and associated wildlife to thrive.

"This also maintains some of the traditional benefits of natural stewardship of the land."

Signs have been posted on Newtown Road and Tolladine Road to warn people - especially those with dogs - to take extra care.

"The sudden reappearance of cattle may take a few people by surprise," added Mr Neale, "but the animals will be too busy chewing the cud to take notice of any passers-by."

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