A rural insurance expert has called on the public to help ease the pressure on farmers during the lambing and calving season.

Account executive Anderson Fossett, of rural insurance broker Lycetts has called upon people to remain mindful and responsible while visiting the countryside during season.

Mr Fossett said: "The desire to pet or feed cute young animals is natural, yet overlooking the consequences of such actions can be hazardous.

 

 

Read more: Worcestershire's A roads with the longest delays revealed

 

 

“Approaching these animals is ill-advised as their protective parents might perceive it as a threat, potentially leading to aggressive responses.

"A cow may look placid, but there is no way of knowing its temperament."

Mr Fossett also emphasized the importance of adhering to public rights of way and marked paths.

He said: “Walkers should also be aware that farmers may have deliberately left gates open – or closed – to control livestock movement, so the public should leave them as they find them.

“There have been a number of incidents where dogs have triggered cattle to attack and so it is vital that walkers ensure their pets are on a lead whenever in the presence of livestock.

“It can be a very stressful period for farmers, many of whom work 18-hour days tending pregnant cows and sheep and newborns."