A GROUP has been formed to stop cattle being reintroduced to graze on Penwith's open moorland.

Members of Save Penwith Moors oppose plans to put up fencing to allow cattle to graze on the Nine Maidens Common above Madron, Carn Kenidjack above St Just, and Carn Galva above Bosigran in West Cornwall.

The cattle-grazing scheme is being proposed under Natural England's HEATH (Heathland, Environment, Agriculture, Tourism and Heritage) Project based on evidence that cattle grazing benefits the ecology of moorland in West Cornwall.

However, campaigners claim it will damage the area's tourist industry by placing “drastic restrictions” on the freedom to roam, and fear cattle could damage footpaths and archaeological sites.

Ian Cooke, an author who lives near the Nine Maidens, is backing the campaign.

“If the scheme goes ahead that wonderful magical feeling of freedom while walking the moors will be lost, probably for ever,” he said.

The Nine Maidens Common is a registered common which means any alteration requires consent by the Secretary of State for the Environment.

The commoners are currently deciding whether or not to seek approval for the project.

Mr Cooke said an online petition will be sent to the Secretary of State if the commoners pursue this course of action.

● For information visit www. savepenwithmoors.com.