Farmers in the Bradford on Avon area have reported an increase in 'sheep worrying incidents' in the last week.

Dog walkers are reportedly letting their pets off the lead in fields that contain sheep, with some being chased into a river and some being found dead.

A farmer in Upper Westwood has reported that on Tuesday, September 17 and on Sunday, September 22 there were incidents of 'sheep worrying', with him seeing an increase lately.

A spokesperson for Wiltshire Police's Rural Crime Team, said: “Wiltshire is undoubtedly a beautiful rural county and agriculture dominates 73 per cent of the landscape.

“It is only natural that people delight in exploring the open spaces but there is a need to respect the countryside too and especially so when out walking a dog.”

Police added: “No matter how well-behaved you think your dog is, it's every dog's instinct to chase, even if they are usually obedient and good with other animals.

“When a dog chases livestock it can result in significant injury or suffering and in the worst cases, the death of the animals involved.”

To report sheep worrying, call 999 in an emergency, or 101 for non-emergency events.