With the Easter break almost upon us, many people will be lacing up their outdoor footwear for a walk in the countryside.

It's set to be a great couple of days, with great weather and calm, blue skies.

But those setting out for the great outdoors have been urged to make sure they take care when out and about in fields that hold livestock.

The National Farmers Union (NFU) and walking charity the Ramblers have joined forces to alert walkers to the potential dangers of walking on grazing land.

Simple things can be done, the organisations said, to reduce risk, like keeping dogs on leads and not walking between a cow and its calf.

NFU livestock board chairman Alistair Mackintosh said: "Walkers also need to be aware of the risk unleashed dogs pose to sheep and lambs as they can chase and, in certain circumstances, attack and kill. 

"These simple precautions all go a long way to ensuring people can continue enjoying the countryside - and safely."

According to the Ramblers, walking is becoming more popular, with around 954,700 more walkers today than there were five years ago.