Vandal attacks on grazing cattle

John Coleman fears for the safety of his cattle on the marshes

Vandals attacking grazing cattle on water meadows in Suffolk could end an 900-year-old tradition.

Cattle have been allowed to graze on Sudbury marshes since the 1200s and the sight attracts visitors and walkers.

However, youths have been seen attacking herds of grazing cattle with sticks and punches. To protect them the animals might now have to be moved off.

The marshes would then revert to scrubland destroying an attractive local amenity, the cattle owner said.

John Coleman said: "Young people in hoods were here in the last week punching cattle in the heads and hitting them with sticks.

"This kind of behaviour just can't go on. There are a few people spoiling these meadows for Sudbury residents who love the area.

"These animals are crucial to the meadows because we cannot cut the grass so it has to be grazed or it will go back to scrub."

Valuable asset

Youngsters on bikes have also been seen chasing the cattle. The rangers who look after the land are setting up a volunteer system to watch over the cattle and protect them against attack.

They will also work with the local community to educate people of all ages about the importance of the marshes and their role.

Ranger Adrian Walsh said: "The marshes are a valuable habitat for wildlife as well as place for local people to visit.

"The police are aware of the problem and are making patrols but it is not a priority to them. This means the voluntary ranger scheme is important as a self help way of protecting the cattle.

"We think that educating people about the role of the marshes and its wildlife will help them understand guardianship of their heritage.

"Sudbury is one of only a very few towns in England with this kind of asset."