MID Devon Police have provided an update in relation to livestock attacks in Mid Devon during recent weeks.

More than 35 sheep were killed and dozens suffered serious injuries.

Police said that working alongside landowners, farmers and the community, local officers and the Rural Affairs Team have been investigating a number of reports involving a dog suspected of being responsible for attacks on livestock.

Police were informed on Friday, September 25 that a dog found to be attacking livestock in the area, believed responsible for a number of incidents in the area over recent weeks, “was sadly destroyed”.

Enquiries into the matter are ongoing.

Between September 18 and 19 a ewe was killed and another injured in the Poughill area and six lambs were killed and 20 seriously injured in the Pennymoor area. One sheep was killed and several injured near Cheriton Fitzpaine.

Between September 1 and 3 attacks resulted in £15,000 loss and injury to livestock.

Further incidents were reported in Cheriton Fitzpaine and Stockleigh English.

Rural Affairs Officer PC Lucy Wyatt said: “We appreciate the concern these incidents have caused to local farmers in Mid Devon, and we would like to thank those who have come forward with information to assist our enquiries.

“We would like to take the opportunity to remind all dog owners of their responsibilities in relation to their dogs.

“Owners should ensure their dogs remain under control at all times and are aware of the impact that livestock worrying can have on farming communities.

“Livestock attacks can cause significant distress and financial loss to farmers, and owners may face criminal investigation where dogs are involved in chasing, injuring or attacking livestock.”

Anyone who witnesses livestock worrying or a dog acting dangerously around livestock is encouraged to report it to police as soon as possible on 999 in an emergency, or 101 in a non-emergency.