Two sheep have died and four more were seriously bitten in a dog attack in Sutton Parva, near Warminster.

The flock of sheep was grazing in fields adjacent to Haydon Farm when the dog attacked them between 9.30am and midday on Saturday, January 16.

Two sheep died and four more suffered serious bites.

The sheep were in a field next to the 5th Milestone byway which can be accessed from the A350 that runs through to Downlands Church Farm, Tyrtherington.

PCSO Candida Jackson said: "We have seen an increase in the number of people seeking out areas of the countryside that are unfamiliar to them.

"Dog owners are reminded to keep their animals on a lead in the countryside, a dog that normally runs around the local park is faced with a very different environment when they are walked in the countryside and may encounter farm animals for the first time."

"When sheep are worried by dogs, it can cause extreme stress to the animals.

"Sheep can bunch together, crushing each other and this can cause shock which can be fatal, or cause them to abort their lambs.

"Sheep worrying and dog attacks on sheep are crimes and can result in large vet bills for the farmer and dog owners may be liable for compensation for any damage to the sheep."

Anyone with information about the dog attack is asked to call 101 quoting log number 54210005206.