An air and sea rescue was launched to rescue the cows

The two 18-month old heifers went over the edge at Stackpole Quay near Tenby on Monday morning.

A helicopter from RAF Chivenor in Devon was able to airlift one of the two cows to safety using a special animal sling.

It survived but the other animal died as a result of injuries.

The coastguard at Milford Haven was alerted by the animals' owner, who runs Crickmarron farm.

Aircraft

The RSPCA and the fire service were also on hand to assist the rescue.

Cliffs at Stackpole Quay are approximately 80 metres high, according to the coastguard.

A spokesman for the coastguard said there had been aircraft flying in the area at the time, but it was unclear whether or not the animals had been frightened by noise from the planes into running over the cliff.

He added cliff falls were an occupational hazard for farmers with farm on the coast.

Tenby inshore lifeboat had been sent in case the helicopter was not able to lift the cow to safety before the tide came in.