MOTORISTS heading for Minchinhampton are warned that the cows have been released onto the common and extra care is needed.

Nearly 400 cattle were turned out to graze Minchinhampton and Rodborough Commons on Monday and they may well wander onto the roads.

Last year nine cattle died in collisions with motorists.

Inspector Jason Keates, from the roads policing unit of Gloucestershire police, warned: “Where animals and traffic mix there is always the potential for collisions.

“Hitting a cow would be like hitting a brick wall, but these brick walls have legs and can move out into the road.

“Keep your speed low and drive to an appropriate speed for the conditions."