As a repeat victim of marauding cattle in my garden early last Sunday morning, I feel it is time the residents of St Cleer village who are continuously suffering damage to their properties by the cattle must be seen as a group of people who want action taken to halt this destruction. These animals have become adept at gaining access and have been seen to hurdle gates and to push fences aside.

I realise the existence of 'Commoners' Rights' but since coming to the village to live in 1984 the number of cattle has so increased that they are continuously roaming through the village. Not only is there constant damage to properties, but the number of motor accidents involving cattle is escalating. I recently incurred damage to my car costing hundreds of pounds when a cow jumped down from a bank on to my bonnet; had I been travelling at any speed, I dare not think of the consequences. In that week alone I am aware of three accidents involving cattle.

If you share my concern and would like to join me in presenting our case to the Parish Council in order that they may pursue this matter through the other appropriate bodies, please sign the Petition which can be found in either of the two village shops in St Cleer. The Parish Council is fully aware of this problem and is actively seeking ways to alleviate it. However I am sure presenting them with such a signed document from all the suffering residents in St Cleer would provide the Council with positive support in their application for funding for the fitting of cattle grids at the appropriate entrances to the village centre.

Kay Shepherd

St Cleer