A FARMER has been left distraught after the latest in a string of dog attacks that have killed sheep over the past few months.

Rachel Elliott, of Tor Hill Farm, Godwell Lane, Ivybridge, keeps a small number of sheep in a field bordering Filham Park.

One of them was attacked and killed by a dog just recently.

She said that since September last year there have been four attacks by dogs on her sheep, two of which have resulted in deaths.

Rachel said: 'The first two attacks were bites to the sheep's legs and ears but the third was a dog which killed a sheep outright after grabbing it by the throat and the latest attack was very savage, with large bites to the sheep's face. It was like a bloodbath.

'The sheep in the latest attack had to be put down and was also with lamb.

'These incidents are very upsetting for us and we do not have a huge flock.

'We are also worried about the shock caused to the other sheep, especially those with lambs, for fear of abortion.'

Police are appealing to witnesses who may have any information about a dog believed to be in Filham Park on the day the sheep was attacked. A spokesman said the attack happened between 1pm and 3pm on Tuesday, February 21.

The sheep was taken to the local vets with severe facial injuries and had to be put down.

Speaking after a spate of attacks on Dartmoor recently, Sgt Dave Anning said farmers are legally entitled to shoot dogs under certain conditions. He said farmers were becoming increasingly fed up with the attacks but, so far, few have exercised their right to shoot offending dogs.

He added: "The farmers in west Devon are incredibly restrained, given the fact they are quite within their rights, by law, to shoot dogs running after their sheep. People need to be warned that when we have evidence we pretty much always prosecute and offenders can face a fine of up to £1,000.'

Anyone with any information on the attack is urged to contact the police by ringing 101 and quoting crime reference JI-12-137.