Cows are to be replaced on Painswick Beacon in a bid to improve the ecosystem at the beauty spot, according to Painswick Beacon Conservation Group.

After a period of debate, the old Gloucester’s were sent to market to be replaced by tougher Dexter cows - they will be released onto the beacon late into the summer.

Paul Baxter, a work party organiser for the Painswick Beacon Conservation Group said: “We intend on bringing eight Dexter cows to the beacon - I think we’ll have them by June.

“They will be used primarily for grazing, which is crucial for the local ecosystem as it helps remove scrub.”

Because the Dexter’s are a tougher breed of cow, they will be able to stay on Painswick Beacon throughout the winter and extend the grazing season - this will benefit the wildlife on the beacon.

“Our new cows are hardier, and much better equipped to deal with the winter months,” added Paul.

“It looks like they will be delivered to Holcombe Farm (Painswick) in the early summer by a local breeder.”

Paul and the team at the conservation group will have six to eight weeks to train the cows - he hopes to halter train a few so they can be led between paddocks.

“If all goes well the replacements will be kept for a long time,” said Paul.

The group along with many other wildlife organisations believe that cattle grazing is vital for the survival of natural habitats.

This is because, much of the flora and fauna that exists on landscapes such as Painswick Beacon rely on grazing to survive.

In fact, cattle grazing removes coarse grasses and scrub whilst helping to break up dense vegetation.

This all helps attract wildlife to the beacon and increases its biodiversity.