A CORONER has called for a national debate about public safety on agricultural land, after a jury returned an accidental narrative verdict in the inquest into the death of Alistair Porter.

Alistair Michael Porter, 66, known as Mike, died after being attacked by a herd of around 30 cows while walking with his brother John and two dogs along a footpath across a field in Turleigh, near Winsley, in May 2013.

Assistant Coroner for Wiltshire and Swindon Ian Singleton told the hearing he will be making a report to the National Farmers' Union, the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, Health and Safety Executive and the Ramblers' Association.

"My intention is to write to a number of organisations that can take action in regard to the process of diverting public footpaths in field where there are cows with calves," said Mr Singleton.

Mr Singleton told the inquest at Salisbury Coroner's Court that he hopes a debate on the dangers raised at the inquest will help to prevent future tragedies happening.

He said: "People for whatever reason don't appreciate the risks that there are with certain types of breed and certain types of situation.

"There certainly seems to be a need for wider discussions to avoid any wider tragedies which seem to happen on a more frequent basis.

"It's a national issue and this is not aimed at the farmer in this case in any way whatsoever.

"This is a concern for anybody in the countryside who wants to use a right of way. There needs to be a great debate about these issues.'

He added: "This is intended for the family so they know his death was not in vain. I will make a recommendation and we will see what comes of it."