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Natural England and Kendal Race Course

11/9/2017

2 Comments

 
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Last week, a herd of 25 bullocks appeared on Kendal Race Course, a Natural England experiment. Natural England’s stated objectives  include
‘ helping to protect England’s nature and landscapes for people to enjoy ‘
‘ promoting access to the countryside and open spaces and encouraging open air recreation.’
The government encourages us to take more exercise.  That’s what we seek to do in walking from Kendal, onto one or other of the two public footpaths crossing the Race Course, onto Scout Scar. Now we are discouraged by inquisitive bullocks that crowd the stiles and follow walkers. It’s intimidating.

It’s good to see families introducing children to the countryside but no-one with any sense would wish to see children confronted by a herd of unpredictable bullocks.
Among the locals who walk daily on Scout Scar there are some with orthopaedic  problems:  knees and hips that can make walking unsteady.  For anyone with heart problems walking is essential. Being surrounded by a herd of bullocks, as happened  last week, is stressful. There is no enjoyment with bullocks about.
The introduction of bullocks to Kendal Race Course, whose public footpaths are so frequently used, is ill-judged.
I have already told Natural England my view and I shall continue to do so as I gather support. And until there is a  speedy and satisfactory solution.  As walking for health and fitness is essential to us all I want to be back out there immediately. Had there been consultation this could have been avoided.
Until recently ewes were grazed on Kendal Race Course. A few years ago lambing took place there.  A delightful pastoral.  Sheep please. Not bullocks.
               
2 Comments
Jill Clough
12/9/2017 08:26:55 am

Couldn't agree more. When I've met cows with calves on a public footpath, I've known the farmer is trying to block it. Farmers aren't afraid of frisky bullocks, but we've read too much in recent years about cows trampling dogs and people to be willing to take risks with cattle of any hue. Bring back the sheep and their lambs.

Reply
an orienteer
12/9/2017 08:49:40 am

Natural England's experimental placement of bullocks on the Race Course needs to be reconsidered if it is not to prevent many from enjoying walking over the area to access Scout Scar. Many are disquieted by cattle and frisky bullocks in particular.
What are NE's objectives in this new use of the Race Course.
Has a full Risk and Impact Assessment been completed and if so is it available to the general public and does it reference the consequent impact on the footpath users?

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    Jan Wiltshire is a nature writer living in Cumbria. She also explores islands and coast and the wildlife experience. (See Home and My Books)

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