Dog owners are being urged to keep their pets under control and on a lead, after lambs are murdered and mauled near Macclesfield.

An unspecified number of lambs were killed by a dog, and many were left with life-altering injuries.

The incident occurred on May 19 at approximately 5pm in fields near Pott Shrigley on the outskirts of Macclesfield.

"Yet again this is the horrific truth of one of the consequences of a livestock attack," said PC Jim Clark.

"At least nine new born lambs subjected to an attack from what is believed to be a dog off the lead and out of control.

"Some of these lambs are in the region of 15 - 20 kilograms in weight, so one would suggest a large dog may be involved. Several lambs were killed outright."

On two occasions a large 'doberman' style dog has been sighted running amongst the livestock.

However, the assailant and their owner have not been currently identified.

"The offending dog would have traces of blood over its face," added the Cheshire Rural Crime Police officer.

"There are very few public footpath close by however there are a number of residential properties and properties undergoing renovation near the land.

"If you are lucky enough to live somewhere that backs onto open fields, are you confident that your dog isn't 'going on an adventure' from your property and out of sight?"

Anybody who has any information surrounding this Pott Shrigley sheep crime should contact the constabulary online. You can quote IML 992043.

Macclesfield resident Michele Bend said: "This is horrendous, why do some just not care and watch over their dogs. This year seen so many awful incidents with poor sheep and lambs, it can't go on."

Livestock worrying is a criminal offence and comes under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953.

A farmer is allowed to kill a dog which attacks their livestock.

For more information on keeping safe in the Macclesfield countryside, head to the Cheshire Police website.

This is the second attack of this type recorded this month, we previously reported on a bloodied pair of lambs in this article.

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