Macclesfield's MP has called for 'urgent action' to tackle livestock worrying.

Tim Roca has written to the Minister for Policing, Fire and Crime Prevention, Diana Johnson.

It follows an 'alarming' rise in dog attacks on livestock in the countryside, an issue that Mr Roca says has a 'significant impact' on the farming community in Macclesfield.

He wrote: "Cheshire, like many other regions, has witnessed a worrying rise in these incidents, exacerbated by a surge in dog ownership since the COVID lockdown.

"These attacks are causing financial harm to farming businesses and, more importantly, horrific and needless suffering to livestock."

Mr Roca added: "Despite repeated public campaigns urging dog owners to keep their pets under control and adhere to the Countryside Code, the number of attacks continues to rise.

"Farmers in Macclesfield and across Cheshire are living in fear of repeat incidents.

"The situation is worsened by many dog owners' apparent lack of awareness about the potential for their pets to inflict harm on livestock."

Tim Roca with local farmers and NFU colleagues (Credit: Tim Roca)

According to recent data from NFU Mutual, the cost of dog attacks on farm animals nationally rose to £2.4 million in 2023 – a 30 per cent increase compared to the previous year.

Mr Roca has asked for the government to clarify what additional powers and measures it plans to grant police and low enforcement to address livestock worrying more effectively.  

He asks if the government will strengthen enforcement capabilities, expand scope for intervention in public spaces such as rural roads and pathways, and introduce more robust consequences for dog owners who fail to adequately control their pets.

Mr Roca's letter finishes: "As we approach another lambing season, urgent action is needed to ensure farmers and communities in Macclesfield, and throughout the country, can feel secure and protected from the distressing impacts of these attacks.

"Thank you for your attention to this serious matter and I look forward to your response."