Calls have been made for warning signs to be installed regarding livestock after the death of an elderly woman who was allegedly trampled by cows.

Pamela Joyce Barnwell, 88, died on October 21 after an incident involving animals in the New Forest, Hampshire, a coroner said on Tuesday.

Kevin Parker, a regular walker, said he had been charged by a cow near where the incident happened a few days before.

Hampshire County Council said responsibility for livestock signage on land crossed by footpaths lay with the owners of the animals.

Mr Parker said he “slipped and fell backwards” as a cow approached him.

“I don’t know what made me do that, but I turned to the right and rushed to try to get back on my feet,” he said.

“As I did this, the cow jumped and landed exactly where I was lying…if I hadn’t moved I would have been seriously injured.”

It comes after the death of Mrs Barnwell, from Fordingbridge, Hampshire.

An investigation into his death was opened on Tuesday, with the preliminary cause of death being multiple traumatic injuries.

She was also noted to have ischemic heart disease.

The inquest will be heard on September 15, 2025.

Mr Parker said livestock should continue to be allowed in the New Forest, but there needed to be better education, particularly for tourists.

“The land is there to move, for humans and animals, I don’t think you should stop it,” he said.

“I just think there needs to be an awareness campaign.”

Andrew Parry Norton, president of the New Forest Commoners Defense Association, which represents New Forest commoners and their animals, urged people to stay away from livestock and report cases of livestock showing signs of aggression .

“We share the forest with a lot of people,” he said. “As citizens, we also have a responsibility.”

Hampshire County Council said in a statement: “Although the county council would install highways-related signage, primarily aimed at drivers, responsibility for livestock, on land crossed by a right-of-way, and any associated required signs , would be the responsibility of the animal owners.”