The ragwort weed can cause liver damage if eaten

The yellow ragwort flower can grow to about four foot in height and although the actual flower is only a centimetre in width, it can cause irreversible liver damage if eaten by livestock.

An international horse charity based in Herefordshire is now hoping a new government bill will mean relevant authorities will have the responsibility for controlling the plant in the future.

Janet Dale, manager of the International League for the Protection of Horses in Hereford, said it was important the new bill goes through.

She told BBC Hereford and Worcester: "I am hoping it will provide a good incentive for people to clear the ragwort.

"It should be controlled and hopefully it will persuade people to do that and help save not only horses but other livestock as well."