Lock-keepers in Oxfordshire have been given permission to put up signs warning the public about the possible dangers of attacks by cows during strolls in the countryside.

The Environment Agency gave the go-ahead after two people were attacked by cows -- believed to be from the Saler breed, of French origin.

Paul Harris spent three days in intensive care with a punctured lung and broken ribs after being trampled by a cow near Godstow Lock.

Sarah Ayers was also attacked by a cow which tried to toss her spaniel Sally into the air before turning on her during a walk on Port Meadow.

The Environment Agency has contacted lock-keepers near where the attack on Mr Harris happened to remind them of the dangers.

Spokesman Dan Taylor said the agency was not responsible for warning the public about cattle but certain breeds were particularly hostile, including the Saler cow.

He said: "We thought it would be sensible to send out reminders to all our staff to take precautions if they go out in the field and see this breed of cow with its young ones.

"This cow has a reputation for being aggressive when with its calves. We wanted to let our staff know and told them they could pass on the information to the public if they wanted to. We thought it was the neighbourly thing to do."

Leigh Fenton, lock-keeper at King's Lock, in Wolvercote, plans to put the warning notice up about Saler cows around the site.

He said: "We have been here for 30 years and have not had incidents like that before, but that is not to say it is not going to happen at some stage. For safety's sake give all cattle -- especially those with calves -- a wide berth."

Mr Harris, 41, of Eynsham, who was attacked in August by a female Saler cow among a herd including two calves, said: "I'm obviously very pleased about these signs if it stops someone else getting injured.

"What I'd like to see now is farmers not allowing cows with calves to roam free on public rights of way."

Salers originate from the Massif Central, in the Auvergne region of France, and are one of the oldest breeds in the world.

John Crowe, secretary of the Salers Cattle Society of the UK and Ireland, said the breed was not particularly aggressive.

He said: "They are no different to any other type of cow. Regardless of breed, if people are walking with dogs across footpaths they may be inquisitive and come over.

"If they have just calved, they will protect their young."