POLICE in South Somerset say they have had "multiple reports" of dogs worrying livestock in the past week.

A spokesperson for the South Somerset Neighbourhood Policing team said sheep had been killed and livestock had suffered serious injuries.

The force's rural affairs unit is calling on owners to keep their dogs under control as the impact of attacks on livestock is "devastating" for farmers.

The neighbourhood policing spokesperson said: "Unfortunately over the last week we have received multiple reports of livestock worrying, which has resulted in the death of sheep and serious injuries inflicted on livestock."

A rural affairs unit spokesperson said: "Avon and Somerset Police would like to remind dog owners to act responsibly when walking in the Avon and Somerset countryside.

"Livestock worrying is a criminal offence.

"This offence does not require livestock to be injured, - allowing your dog to be out of control around livestock, you will be committing that offence.

"The impact of livestock worrying on our farming community can be devastating.

"Please always keep dogs under control around livestock."