Video: Farmer who built 300ft steel fence has no regrets

A large metal fence which encloses a public footpath through a farmer’s field in Somerset continues to divide opinion among locals.

Landowner Alan Brunt built the 300ft steel-spiked fence himself after becoming frustrated by dog mess, scooter riders, picnickers and trespassers.

Mr Brunt paid £8,000 for the fencing, which he built himself after buying the meadow in Frome for £255,000.

See also: What farmers need to know about fencing and the law

Nearly three years on, the 17ha field has been cleaned and is now used to grow good-quality horse hay.

Alpacas and cattle – including a bull – have recently been allowed to return to the field.

Mr Brunt said the 6ft-high fence gives him piece of mind that his animals and the public are safe. He told Farmers Weekly he had “no regrets”, insisting that most locals were happy with it.