Q. Ours is an unusual situation to say the least. My partner and I live a rural existence and have done for the past twenty years. As country dwellers, we are quite used to (and do not mind) living next door to open farmland. However, the farm changed hands last year and the new owner also changed the field use from arable crop to organic livestock – he has actually diversified and is now keeping goats for milk and cheese production.

Although we applaud his organic mission, the goats are causing damage to our land by eating our vegetation, which they can reach over the inappropriate field gate fencing. A polite word has only had our farming neighbour laughing but we feel very strongly, having spent a great deal on money on creating a beautiful landscaped garden. I believe that the onus should not be on us to put up new fencing and which would obviously spoil our uninterrupted view. Is there any action we could take which might have a more positive effect?

A. Legally, the law is on your side as The Animals Act 1971 makes provision for the victim of damage caused by animals kept on neighbouring land to be compensated by the land owner. I would suggest that if a polite word has failed, you write to the farmer more formally reminding him of his legal obligation and, whilst wishing to retain good relationships with him, emphasising your equal determination to prosecute to recover any loss or damage caused by his livestock. I would further suggest that you put to him that he either erects more appropriate fencing next to your two properties, installs electrified fencing as per standard agricultural fencing procedures, or that he keeps you supplied in perpetuity with delicious milk and goat’s cheese gratis!

bad neighbours, pets

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