Deer cull planned to cut accidents

A deer cull is under way in Cannock Chase to reduce accidents on the M6 Toll and protect an area of special scientific interest.

UK Coal, which owns 100 acres of land around the Bleak House coalfield at Norton Canes, has acted after the herd grew too large to control.

In just 12 months, 10 deer have been struck by cars on the toll road, and the 100-strong herd has been eating saplings and vegetation in the protected area.

One large stag was shot in a field behind Norton Canes High School, off Burntwood Road, last weekend by huntsmen working for UK Coal, in conjunction with the West Mercia Deer Management Group.

Ten more stags will be shot over the coming weeks to bring the herd under control.

Deer can cause the destruction of rowan saplings, which they are particularly fond of.

They are also prolific breeders and herd sizes have to be constantly monitored by management groups.

Stuart Oliver, spokesman for UK Coal, said: "We realised there was a problem with the deer and working with West Mercia Deer Management Group, we are carrying out a culling programme.

"It is a humane culling procedure, involving trained huntsmen with rifles.

"We have to bring the herd under control because it was causing a lot of destruction.

"The other problem is the deer getting on to the toll road, which we must also keep a check on.

"If they collide with a car, they can cause a lot of damage to the vehicle and there could obviously be serious consequences for people travelling on the motorway."

Mr Oliver said it is vital UK Coal protects the area of special scientific interest and keeps the herd healthy and manageable.

The cull initially sparked fears poachers were operating in the area.

Norton Canes resident John Fitzmaurice discovered two patches of blood on the ground in the field behind the school on Monday and feared poachers were to blame before the involvement of UK Coal came to light.