Eleven sheep carcasses found dumped on Oxfordshire farm

Police have appealed for anyone who had been offered cheap lamb to come forward
Police have appealed for anyone who had been offered cheap lamb to come forward

Eleven sheep carcasses have been found dumped on an Oxfordshire farm - prompting worries over illegal meat trade.

The dead animals were discovered between 30 June and 24 July by the farmer whose sheep had gone missing in Barford St John, near Banbury.

PC Suzanne Goodman, from Banbury Police Station, said: "This has been very distressing for the farmer. I am keen to speak to anyone who has witnessed anything suspicious in the area around the airfield at Barford St John, day or night, during this period.

"Also, I would like to hear from anyone who has been offered cheap lamb for sale. I would advise anyone to report this to the police and not buy or eat such meat as there could be a health risk."

Police have also appealed for anyone who had been offered cheap lamb to come forward.

Sixty lambs were also stolen this month, with the police saying they would be destined 'almost immediately' for the illegal meat trade.

Anyone who saw the offence taking place or any suspicious behaviour in Barford St John is urged to call Thames Valley Police on 101 and quote incident reference 43170208462.