POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a sheep was savagely attacked by a dog.

The incident took place on Tuesday night in Sydling St Nicholas.

Police have confirmed the animal is alive but had to be treated for what are described as 'significant injuries.'

Dorchester Police are reminding residents that sheep worrying is a crime and that dogs should be kept on leads when entering fields near livestock.

Issuing a warning the police said: “Please be aware and if you are out and about politely remind dog owners to take care.”

Please contact Dorchester Rural SNT with any details of this attack by calling 101 and quoting reference 55160143391.