FARMERS and pet owners are being urged to move animals to safety if there is any risk of flooding.

The RSPCA, The National Farmers Union and the Environment Agency put out the appeal this week following an incident on the River Exe flood plain when a herd of cows were stranded in floods north of Tiverton.

The incident happend shortly before Christmas and a number of similar incidents have occurred in the area in recent years. Fortunately, the cows were rescued by the farmer, with the help of the RSPCA and the police.

But it could have been a different story had the sudden rise in the river been during the night rather than in the daylight.

Jonathan Silk, the South West regional manager of the RSPCA, said: "Responsible landowners must be aware that during inclement weather they should move livestock from low-lying fields that are prone to flooding. We want to see them putting contingency plans into place and stocking up on food for livestock."

The Environment Agency may have the solution for most farmers - by providing a free flood warning service that can give farmers prior warning of rivers rising and expected flood levels.

Flood warning team leader for the agency Mark Russell said: "Most farmers know the rivers that run through their land but there will be times, especially at night, when a river can rise unexpectedly rapidly.

"This is when an Environment Agency flood warning could mean the difference between life and death for livestock. The warning service can provide the vital time to allow animals to be taken to higher ground.

"Some farmers in Devon already receive our flood warnings direct to their own phones, but the service is available to many more," he added.

Ian Johnson, from the NFU, said that there are no excuses for incidents where animal welfare is at risk from flooding. He said: "It seems flooding is becoming more and more unpredictable due to the increased storminess and we encourage farmers to take advantage of this free service to protect stock." at times of flooding."

n To find out if the Environment Agency provides warnings for your river, contact 0845-988188.