Workers were herding their own cattle to a central point on the Brakfontein Farm (in doing so, the cattle were on the R600 Road) when a truck ploughed into them yesterday (Thursday).

The cattle were being herded by 20 workers, with points-men waving red flags strategically placed well in advance of the moving cattle on the Winterton Road (R600).

The 150 or so cattle were on the road on a steep incline when the truck hit them. The driver claims that his brakes failed.

Seven cattle were killed instantly, their carcasses scattered across the road and down an embankment. Another cow was injured and later put down.

Workers were on the road, warning motorists that there were cattle ahead. This was confirmed by the farmer and his workers. The driver had plenty of warning that there were animals ahead.

Moving cattle were on both sides of the road and some were in the road. All the cattle that were killed belonged to workers on the farm.

Every year, during the holiday period, the farmer vaccinates his cattle. He also vaccinates cattle owned by his staff. Staff were bringing their livestock to the vaccination point when the tragic accident occurred.

The farmer expressed relief that none of his workers were injured in the accident.

According to police, the accident took place on Thursday morning just before 9am.  A case of reckless and negligent driving is being investigated by Ladysmith detectives.