'Prize' ram and pregnant ewe killed in dog attack on National Trust property

Sheep have been killed as a result of injuries sustained from a dog attack, including one "prize" ram and a pregnant ewe.

The attack happened at National Trusts' Wimpole Hall estate in Cambridgeshire.

The sheep, owned by a local farmer which graze on the Trusts' property, included a "prize" ram. Police confirmed they were investigating.

"Two sheep were killed as a result of injuries sustained from what appears to be a dog attack," the trust said.

Their website states that the public should always ensure dogs do not disturb wildlife, farm animals, horses or other people, by keeping it under effective control.

"Our livestock are grazing across the estate so please keep your dog on a short lead in all areas with livestock and walk steadily and quietly past the animals," it states.

New figures by NFU Mutual how that the cost of dog attacks on livestock rose by 67 percent across the UK in the past two years.

The record level of claims cost the farming industry an estimated £1.6m in 2017, according to the rural insurer.

The figures follow the release of a report by the All Party Parliamentary Animal Welfare Group which shows more than 1,800 farm animals have been killed by dog attacks in the space of four years.