I never said you should wave a stick and shout - I said the opposite.

As it happens, I've lived in the country for most of my time in England, and two of my best friends are farmers. I have helped with lambing, looked after dozes of cades, and moved beasts from one field to another when required. I know how to herd sheep, and usually have no problem with cows.

It's when bullocks are involved that there's a problem. Particularly bullocks which are over the statutory age when they are legally allowed to be kept in fields containing footpaths.

I know a lot of you farmong lot don't like having footpaths through your land. Tough shit - live with it. You're legally obliged to keep the paths clear and safe for walkers, and that means ensuring you don't keep dangerous animals where they don't belong. End of.