West Yorkshire dad trampled by cows while walking dogs with wife in Wakefield to be subject of inquest

Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now
An inquest is to be held into the death of a dad-of-two who was trampled by a herd of cows while out dog walking with his wife.

Michael Holmes, 57, was pronounced dead at the scene and his widow Teresa was airlifted to hospital after they crossed a field on a public right of way with their two dogs.

Teresa suffered life-changing spinal injuries in the incident in Wakefield in September 2020.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

An inquest into his death, expected to last two days, will be held at Wakefield Coroners Court on Thursday October 6.

Theresa and Michael Holmes were walking their dogs when they were trampled by a herd of cows. Picture: CFG Law/SWNSTheresa and Michael Holmes were walking their dogs when they were trampled by a herd of cows. Picture: CFG Law/SWNS
Theresa and Michael Holmes were walking their dogs when they were trampled by a herd of cows. Picture: CFG Law/SWNS

Solicitor Jonathan Fogerty, from CFG Law, which is representing Teresa, said: "It's been two years since Michael's tragic death.

"His wife Teresa now hopes this inquest will help her to understand what happened that day."

Michael's death was the third fatal cow trampling in a month.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Deputy headteacher David Clark died after being trampled by cattle in a field north of Richmond, North Yorkshire, just days earlier.

Malcolm Flynn, 72, was fatally injured when he was charged by cows on land near Thirlwall Castle and Gisland, Northumberland.

Former army officer Janicke Tvedt, 55, was left with life-changing injuries after being trampled by a herd of cows as she walked her Labrador in July 2021.

Read More
Leeds woman taking on gruelling challenges in memory of paramedic cousin who die...

The National Farmers Union said cattle could become aggressive if they felt threatened, especially if they had their calves with them as they become protective.

Their suggestions include avoiding "getting between cows and their calves", move quickly and quietly, and keep gates closed behind you when walking through fields.