REPORTS are coming in that cows have infiltrated Selsley, Rodborough and Minchinhampton commons.

A picture has emerged on social media of a cow gazing into a camera with another lazily peering out of the long grass behind.

Drivers are being urged to take care as about 500 more heifers and cows are due to be released as of today.

Roadside signs have been put up to remind drivers of the cattle and some of this year’s cows will even be sporting reflective gear in a bid to increase their visibility in the dark.

Last year five cattle were killed in collisions with motor vehicles, less than half of the total of the previous year, while passengers and drivers were put at serious risk of injury.

Farmer Bill Powell told the SNJ: “It seems odd to some people to see cattle on unfenced properties but grazing is the best way to keep the commons in good condition for everyone’s benefit.”

Gloucestershire’s Police & Crime Commissioner Martin Surl has funded the reflective neck collars for the cattle as a pilot to reduce the number of collisions on Rodborough and Minchinhampton commons.

Two different types of collars will be evaluated over the next few months to establish the most resilient and effective.

If it is a success then the Commissioner will fund a role out of the best collar so that the cattle and motorists are protected ready for the darker evenings.

Mr Surl said: “As a local man I am well aware of the problems of cattle grazing on the commons.

“This project will help to deliver my priority of safe and social driving.

“Fortunately there have not been any serious injuries to people over the last few years but that is only a matter of time.

“As the traffic flows have increased over the last few years so have the collisions.

“The collars will hopefully give motorists the warning they need to avoid these accidents.”

Residents who have grazing rights are able to release their cattle onto the common where they are left to enjoy the pasture until the end of October.