Incident number 1141
Date of incident: 15.06.25
Site: Footpath across field leading to Shap Abbey, heading east from Rayside parallel with and above the river (to the south of the river)
2 walkers, no dog
Type of cow: Group of cows and calves in same field : Very large, all black
Description: “The cows and calves were scattered across the field and the footpath went through the middle of them. We realized there were calves and slowly backed off. An enormous black cow mooed at us repeatedly and followed us. The cow kept watch and came closer as we moved to an alternative route. We had to climb a wire fence then make a circuit around the field on a steeply sloped field above the river. We then had to rejoin our route by going under barbed wire. Due to the beaten path it looked as if other walkers had done the same. The detour was difficult terrain to walk. The cow continued to moo above us out of view so we made our diversion very long.”
Joanne comments: “There need to be big warning signs. Proper diversions should be offered if needed. Better fencing.”
Cattle Safety 