A FARMER who wants to bring a prized herd of cattle to Hampshire has got crucial permission for a farmworker's house but been refused one for himself.

Nick Russell is a successful cattle breeder and trader who wants to relocate the business from Somerset to Down Farm, near Hursley, Winchester.

City council planners have approved a house off Farley Mount Road for a worker but rejected his plan for a large £1 million-plus home for himself on land at Butcher's Plantation off Main Road, Hursley.

Councillors heard that Mr Russell, a fifth generation farmer, wants to have between 200-600 cattle on the 1,350-acre farm as well as grow crops.

They gave the go-ahead for the stockman's home which will allow him to bring his animals but refused him permission for the barn-style dwelling for himself.

The committee was told the huge house was not necessary to run the business.