Cattle returned to historic site after 60 years

Cattle have returned to a historic site in Kent after a 60-year absence to help restore the lowland grassland.

The Dexter cattle have been released at Golden Hill in Harbledown, near Canterbury, as part of Kent Wildlife Trust’s Wilder Grazing programme.

The herd, which had previously been grazing at nearby South Blean Nature Reserve, will now "set to work helping to manage and shape the habitat around them through their natural grazing behaviour", a spokesperson said.

Alison Ruyter, from Kent Wildlife Trust, said "we are all looking forward to seeing the wildlife benefits that the cattle will bring".

The breed is known for chomping away at thickets of bramble in the spring, which helps create light and space for other plants to grow, and their small size is ideal in wet woodland sites.

Golden Hill was originally bestowed by Queen Elizabeth I to The Canterbury Guardians of the Poor in the 1600s.

The herd will be on site for the next four to six weeks, helping to restore the lowland grassland area.

It will return in spring for another stint before being moved to another reserve for the summer period.

Ms Ruyter said: “The herd seemed impressed with their new surroundings.

"The Wilder Grazing Programme is supported by an army of volunteer livestock checkers who are fundamental to the success of the programme."

The release follows on from a successful grazing project at Scotney Castle earlier this year where longhorn and Sussex cattle roamed the grounds, helping to manage the land.

Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected] or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.