Surrey Police is reminding dog owners their pets could be shot and they could be prosecuted if their animals worry livestock.

The stark warning comes after two recent incidents in which sheep were injured and killed by a dog in Tadworth.

On Thursday, 16th February, five sheep were injured in an attack at the farm on Ebbisham Lane and one later died. On Monday, 20th February, a further four sheep were so severally injured they had to be put down by a vet.

Reigate and Banstead Neighbourhood Specialist Officer Sue Roe, said: "It is totally unacceptable for dogs to attack and maul livestock and for their owners to allow them to be so dangerously out of control.

"It is lambing season at the farm and all of the killed ewes were pregnant with their off-spring due in May, this is not just upsetting for the farmer but has cost them financially with each sheep worth around £150 and their lambs £60 as well as the vet bill for the injured animals.

"Most dog owners don't realise their pet could be destroyed if the dog is found worrying livestock and I would like to stress the importance of keeping your dog under control when near other people and animals."

Alerts have been circulated by the Reigate and Banstead Safer Neighbourhood Team to other farms in the area using CountryWatch.

Anyone with information on the incident is urged to contact Surrey Police on 101 quoting reference RB/12/1294.

Call 101 for all non-emergency policing matters.

Call 999 if you have a genuine emergency requiring the attendance of the police (eg a crime is in progress or someone is in immediate danger).

Call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you have information about crime and don't want to leave your name.