Police have reminded dog walkers of their responsibility to control their dogs after a rise in attacks in the local countryside.

The warning from Cheshire Police comes after a rise in family dogs chasing sheep – and in some cases being spotted three fields away.

In some cases the sheep have been attacked or chased to the point where they have died from fright.

PCSO Pam Graham said: "The owners in some cases have been left shocked by the fact their lovely family dog has suddenly, completely out of character, attacked or chased sheep to the point the sheep have either died of fright or aborted their unborn lambs.

"I’d simply urge owners, no matter how reliable you think your dogs are, to keep dogs on a lead near livestock.

"It’s better to be safe than sorry by using your lead to control your dog.

"This should avoid not only the devastation and financial cost to the farmer who has lost his or her sheep, but the trauma to the dog owner from their dog’s actions, and the thought it could have been shot to prevent further devastation.

"Take a look at the countryside code to see how you can do your bit."

To find out more about how to keep you, your pet and farm animals safe visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-countryside-code