"It is not her time!" That was the defiant message from a city animal lover who has stopped a beloved Highland cow from being sent for slaughter.
Taverham Mill's herd of highland cattle have attracted hundreds of visitors to the Anglian Water nature reserve in recent years.
But one of the majestic animals, Rose, was facing her final days due to ill health.
Sandi Lowe had been in talks to save the cow and had secured a place at Hillside Animal Sanctuary, near Spixworth.
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The 66-year-old had been in touch with bosses at Anglian Water and said: “I will literally chain myself to the fence before I let them take her – it is not her time!”
Her battle to save Rose was far from straightforward though.
Sandi continued: “At first I was told I could not take her. Then I was told I could have her for £500, then I was told I could just take her - and then they said no again.
READ MORE: Taverham Mill highland cows relocated to Alton Water Suffolk
“I’d seen her, and she was old and slow, but she did not deserve to die.”
And now, after the Evening News got involved, Sandi has triumphed and Rose will be able to live out her days in a sanctuary.
An Anglian Water spokeswoman said: “These cows are a valuable part of our conservation grazing plan which helps improve the biodiversity at Taverham Mill, and as such, our team are dedicated to providing them with the best care possible.
"We are proud of the wonderful life the cows enjoy as part of our ongoing commitment to supporting the natural environment.
READ MORE: Highland cattle return to Taverham Mill nature reserve
“We have been caring for this cow through some health problems for the last few months as we were all concerned about her long-term wellbeing, especially heading into the winter.
“Our vet has been to visit her and while the cow is overweight and not tremendously mobile, her condition has improved, and they have confirmed that she is not currently in any pain.
“Given this advice, we are happy for her to live out her days at the animal sanctuary and are working with them to relocate her as soon as we are able.”
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