Highland cows saved me after breakdown, says nurse

A paediatric nurse who suffered a nervous breakdown during the pandemic says taking on ownership of a small herd of Highland cows "saved her".

Chloe Lucas, 38, worked as a sister nurse at Basildon Hospital in Essex during the pandemic, but the trauma she witnessed meant she was signed off for three months.

After taking an interest in farming - inspired by watching episodes of Clarkson's Farm - Chloe eventually took on the hairy, horned cattle.

"Since doing this, I feel good; I feel more in control of my mental health," she said.

Ms Lucas, who has worked at the hospital for 10 years, said the pandemic "was really damaging for my mental health".

"It was the most horrific thing that I have ever been through in my life and my nursing career," she said.

Chloe says watching episodes of Clarkson's Farm and the BBC's Countryfile during her recovery made her curious.

Volunteering on farms in Essex, Norfolk, Kent and Devon, Chloe learned skills including driving tractors and how to deliver lambs and calves.

Working on land in Maldon on the Essex coast, Chloe moved two Highlands down from a farm in Norfolk before adding to her herd.

"They're so relaxed and chilled out, they've all got their own personality," Chloe said.

"There is something about the Highland cows that is so magnificent, I just feel so privileged."

Chloe's friend Laura Chimes volunteers with the livestock, and says they have been like "therapy" for her after losing her father two years ago.

"When I've done all the jobs, I'll sit there and look at them, and I'll think about my dad but in such a positive, happy way," she said.

"I'm at peace here."

The cows currently live at the back of The Hoppy Acre rabbit sanctuary in Wickford, but Chloe has struck a deal with Basildon Council to allow the herd to graze at two other sites in Billericay - Hannakins and Norsey Meadow nature reserve.

The council said this forms part of a meadow restoration project created alongside Natural England.

"By grazing at different times of the year, the cattle help to manage the vegetation in a way that mimics natural processes, reducing the need for tractors and other machinery," a council spokesperson said.

"This not only lowers our carbon emissions but also promotes a more diverse and resilient ecosystem.

"We are excited about the positive impact this project will have on our local environment and look forward to seeing the benefits of this sustainable approach to land management."

Chloe hoped to be able to move the Highlands to their new pastures in the spring.

"Honestly, they have saved me," she said.

"This is my happy place, my little haven so, yeah, it's been amazing."

Follow Essex news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.