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A dog owner from Knutsford has been fined almost £1,000 after the death of one ewe which was in lamb with twins. 

Cheshire Police Rural Crime Team said the livestock worrying incident had taken place at a farm near Macclesfield which killed a pregnant ewe while injuring another sheep.

Police Constable Jim Clark said the owner had pleaded guilty to being the person in charge of the dog during the incident at court earlier this month.

Rural crime officers said it was important for owners to have the 'strength to restrain' the dog with a suitable lead or restraint method and the ability to be able to recall their dog.

Mr Clark said livestock worrying incidents had been occurring on a 'frighteningly regular basis'.

He confirmed the owner was ordered to pay costs of £923 - which included £678 to the farmer.

More news: Farmer shoots dog following livestock worrying incident with a 'number of' lambs killed

You can support Íæż½ã½ã's Take the Lead campaign, in association with the National Sheep Association, to raise awareness of keeping dogs on lead when near livestock.

We can provide you with free signs to place around your farm warning dog owners to keep their dogs on a lead near livestock.

To request yours, send a stamped self-addressed A4 envelope to: FG Take the Lead, Íæż½ã½ã, Unit 4, Fulwood Business Park, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 9NZ.

We will be able to send up to 25 signs.

Alternatively, you can contact reporter Chris Brayford if you have been a victim of a livestock worrying incident and if you wish to share your story at [email protected]

More news: Kent farmer encourages dog owners to undertake training in order to alleviate livestock worrying 'burden' on farm businesses