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POLICE IN BUCKIE are investigating a sheep worrying incident at a farm in the Drybridge area earlier this week.

The attack resulted in the deaths of four sheep as well as injuries to several others and happened between 11pm on Wednesday, January 31 and 2.30pm the following morning.

Inspector Neil Campbell of the Buckie Community Policing Team said “The result of this attack has obviously had a financial impact on the farmer, with the loss of the sheep that were likely pregnant and preparing to give birth to lambs, there is also the additional stress placed on the other injured sheep plus the cost of their subsequent treatment.

“Farmers are legally entitled to protect their livestock which can result in the destruction of a dog by shooting it. Whilst no farmer wishes to resort to this option it is an option available and one that could quite easily be avoided if owners ensure that they have proper control of their dogs.

“My advice to anyone who is exercising or walking their dogs in rural areas is to ensure that they have their dogs under close control, restrained on leads and prevent their dogs from entering any land or fields where livestock is grazing.”

Anyone with information regarding this sheep worrying incident is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 2264 of 1 February. Information can also be given anonymously by calling the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Meanwhile police in Forres report that two sixteen-year-old males in Forres have been arrested and charged with culpable and reckless fire-raising at the Chapelton Farm Wetland and Wildlife Hide on Saturday, January 13.