Wiltshire farmer's plea after calves put in danger by drug-takers

A Wiltshire farmer is appealing for the public to help her tackle a spate of incidents on grazing land near Chippenham which she fears could put the lives of both people and her cows at risk.

Gretchen Winter, of Netherstreet Farm, has been plagued by a series of unexplained and dangerous episodes caused by people walking on land at Roundway, where her herd of Galloway cattle are currently grazing.

The incidents include people leaving nitrous oxide “laughing gas” canisters in the grass – which could be swallowed by curious calves – and people removing signs warning that there is a bull in the field.

Mrs Winter, who also runs the popular Farm Cookery School, has taken to Facebook to appeal to the public for help and has also contacted the Wiltshire Police rural crime team in a bid to keep her cattle safe.

She posted: “We don't know why, but this is what is happening on Roundway, where our herd of Galloways are currently grazing.

“The fence electrics are being turned off, this is dangerous for the herd and for the public.

“The gate between the two fields has been closed and bolted meaning that the cows had no access to water overnight, which is animal cruelty.

“We cannot understand the reasoning behind it. So many things happen including locks being glued, fences cut and signs being ripped down, but this feels more personal and hateful.