Farmer experiences 'worst night in 20 years of farming' following death of 55 cows

(Photo: Tom Rawson/@Evo_Farming/Twitter)
(Photo: Tom Rawson/@Evo_Farming/Twitter)

A Yorkshire farmer has experienced his "worst night in twenty years of farming" following the death of 55 cows due to a suspected water contamination issue.

Tom Rawson, Director of Evolution Farming Ltd based in West Yorkshire, spoke of the devastating news on social media.

Mr Rawson used Facebook and Twitter to say "daylight has broken" to 55 dead cows at his Leicester site.

Originally thought to be bloat, a seasonal problem in both dairy and beef cattle, the likely cause is now believed to be an external water source contamination issue.

In a statement, Evolution Farming said: "Although the water system for the farm is isolated and no water can enter the mains, we have also ensured that washings from the flushed water system have not been spread on the ground.

"We notified Severn Trent Water as soon as we realised the problem was likely to be water-related and they are satisfied that there is no risk to their supply quality.

"The current situation is we are investigating what exactly caused these symptoms and how this could have happened, as we must not ever allow it to happen again."

Mr Rawson wrote on social media: "A long and emotional night for all the farm team, their families ourselves and the vet Henry.

"Thanks to the quick thinking of our amazing team of people 30 cows that were down were saved. Also thanks to the fire brigade who were called when it became clear it was a water issue to get water to the cows to flush their systems.

"I guess now the clear up operation begins plus the investigations will start it will be a long day."

Facebook users were quick to offer their condolences to Mr Rawson.