WALKERS in the Peak District are being asked to take extra care for their own safety when crossing fields containing livestock.

Jenny Waller, senior ranger for the National Park Authority, said: "Late spring is an important time in the Peak District.

"Wildlife is breeding and it is lambing and calving time on farms as well.

"If bullocks or cows with young feel threatened by dogs they could charge and trample both pet and owner."

She explained that even though owners have their dogs on a lead and under close control, there can be the risk of livestock trampling both dog and owner, resulting in injury.

She said: "If you are chased by livestock the best advice is to get out of the field as quickly as possible. Let the dog fend for itself - a dog can easily out run a cow - but call it to you as soon as you are out of danger."