Moo‑ved to safety: man climbs tree to flee cow

pic: Hants & IW Fire Service

A man was rescued from up a tree at Whiteley Bank on Wednesday morning after he fled from an angry cow!

The man was walking his dog on a public footpath through Whiteley Bank, when he noticed an escaped calf. A cow, feeling protective of its nearby offspring, ran through a fence, forcing the man to climb the tree for safety.

Hants and IW Fire Rescue (HIWFRS) control room operators provided reassurance throughout the ordeal before the arrival of Shanklin and Newport teams at around 9.30am.

A spokesman said: “Firefighters found the angry cow at the foot of the tree in which the man was trapped.

“The owner was called to the scene, managing to coax the cow and its calf away and into a nearby field, allowing the man to safely climb down where he was reunited with his dog. HIWFRS left the scene and returned to station at around 11am.

“Animals we come across regularly in our countryside, such as cows and horses, have strong maternal instincts to protect their young, so it is vital to keep your distance.

pi”When out walking in the countryside, in fields or areas that contain livestock try not to get too close and always keep your dog on a lead. If you feel threatened by an animal, remain calm and find a safe place.​”