A herd of cows has caused a stir in the Cornish village of St Breward, leaving residents bemused and their gardens trampled. The unexpected visitors were seen grazing on lawns and leaving their mark throughout the village, much to the surprise of the local community. This unusual event is attributed to a local farmer exercising long-standing “ancient commoners’ rights”.
Key Takeaways
- Cows have been seen grazing on private lawns and causing a mess in St Breward.
- The animals belong to a local farmer exercising “ancient commoners’ rights”.
- These rights permit grazing on shared land and have been officially recorded.
- The situation has divided the village, with some finding it amusing and others a nuisance.
Ancient Rights Unleash Bovine Visitors
The cows, numbering around eleven on this occasion, gained access to residents’ gardens, leading to a mixed reaction. Local resident Peter Glaser explained that the farmer was exercising “ancient commoners’ rights,” a tradition officially recorded in Cornwall Council’s Commons Register. These rights allow farmers to graze their livestock on common land, a practice that has been ongoing for years.
Village Divided Over Grazing Cows
While the tradition is time-honoured, its modern-day application has caused some disruption. Mr Glaser noted that the cows are venturing further into the village than before, accessing private properties. He recounted a personal experience where cows in his garden necessitated a thorough cleaning to make it safe for visiting grandchildren, leading him to ensure his property gate remains closed.
The situation has created a divide within St Breward. For some, the presence of the cows is a source of amusement, a quirky aspect of village life. However, for others, particularly those concerned about their gardens, it presents a significant headache. The ongoing practice highlights a clash between historical rights and the expectations of modern property ownership.
Sources
- Hungry cows ransack Cornwall village thanks to ‘ancient rights’, Cornwall Live.
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Cornish Village Overrun by Cows Exercising Ancient Grazing Rights