Suspended sentence for farmer whose cows trampled man to death

After Mr Mitchell’s sentencing, HSE inspector Sally Gay said: “Large animals can be a risk to people. Even a gentle knock from a cow can result in injury.

“Seemingly docile cattle can pose a risk to walkers when they are under stress or feel threatened, and can exhibit instinctive maternal or aggressive behaviour.

“This tragic incident could easily have been avoided if basic precautions had been taken by the farmer.

“Readily available HSE guidance states that, where possible, cows with calves should not be grazed in fields where there is a public right of way.

“Where this is not possible they should be segregated from the footpath by appropriate fencing where it is reasonable to do so.”

Mr Mitchell, of Netherton, pleaded guilty to breaching Section 3(2) of the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974.

As well as the suspended sentence, he was also ordered to pay a fine of £500 and make a contribution of £3,500 towards costs.