Animals will no longer be allowed to graze in Harlow's parks, the council's Environment & Community Committee has decided. And animals grazing elsewhere in the town must display identification and contact details for their owner.

The decision is the result of complaints from local residents about a variety of problems, from residents being bitten or kicked to horse welfare complaints. Liberal Democrat environment spokesman Eleanor Macy says:

"This way forward allows grazing on appropriate areas of public land, but enables the council to control the situation and respond quickly to any future complaints."