WARNING GRAPHIC IMAGE: Appeal launched after nine deer slaughtered 'for fun' in Purbeck

Dorset Police are investigating the killings and have released a picture of some of the deer found by members of the public during the last week - WARNING GRAPHIC IMAGE OF THE DEER BELOW.

The bodies were found in two different locations - seven deer were found at the bottom of Randalls Hill near Lytchett Minster and another two had been dumped at the Slough Lane bridle path near Frenches Farm, Upton.

Officers said that all nine deer have dog bites on their rears, their insides removed and throats cut.

Police Sergeant Jane Mooney, of Purbeck’s Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “I am appealing to members of the public to come forward if they have any information regarding these killings.

“These cruel wildlife attacks appear to have been carried out for ‘fun’ as there are no signs of butchering.”

She added: “I would also like to appeal to local walkers and dog owners who might be out and about in rural areas to keep their eyes and ears open and report any suspicious behaviour.

“All calls will be treated in strict confidence.”

Officers say there has been a rise in the number of deer killings in the county recently, which police are responding to with increased patrols in targeted areas.

Dorset Police’s Wildlife Co-ordinator, Inspector Steve Marsh, said: “We have noticed an increase in this kind of wildlife crime in our rural areas.

“Deer are being slaughtered by dogs as part of an illegal sport or poached for their meat.

“I would like to reassure the public that, together with partner agencies, we are taking these crimes extremely seriously and will prosecute offenders accordingly.

“We currently have robust patrols in targeted areas and can only ask that the public remain vigilant to such crimes and come forward with any information.”

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Dorset Police on 101, email warehamnorthSNT@dorset.pnn.police.uk, or call the anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.