After farmers expressed concern over unruly dogs escaping into their fields police are asking dog owners to keep their pets on leads, particularly around Royston Heath and other rural areas.

Farmers are worried about the number of dogs that are getting through fencing into a field where sheep are kept.

Once inside the dogs start to chase the sheep which causes them a great deal of distress and the shock of this can even kill them.

PCSO Chris Brabrook of the Royston safer neighbourhood team said: “Owners are advised to keep their dogs on leads and away from where livestock are grazing.

“If a dog worries livestock, then the owner or person responsible for the animal is guilty of an offence under the Dogs Protection of Livestock Act 1953 and could be sued for compensation by the farmer.

“People should also be aware that the law allows farmers to shoot animals if they are found to be worrying livestock, so it is very important that dogs are kept under control.”

Anyone who witnesses someone allowing their dog to worry and disturb livestock is asked to contact police on the 101 non-emergency number.