Deer killed by poachers at south Dorset farm

The grim discovery was made at a local farm this morning - and police have issued an image that some readers may find distressing, in a bid to raise awareness of "ongoing attacks" by poachers.

"These are the scenes that a farmer in Dorset has awoken to this morning," said PC Sebastian Haggett of Dorset Police Rual Crime Team.

"A trespasser has entered a field in a vehicle in the night, driven down crop and then killed a deer.

It appears this has been done by making contact with it in a vehicle. "The images are unsettling and are a reminder of the realities of poaching. This is not 'one for the pot' or the result of a hungry individual trying to feed their family."

Anyone who spots a vehicle in a field at night and suspects poaching is in progress is urged to dial 999 immediately.

Meanwhile the farmer, who wishes to remain anonymous, has condemned those responsible.

"This is just another example of the ongoing attacks farmers are experiencing on a daily basis from poachers," they said.

Damage caused to crops Picture: Dorset Police Rural Crime Team

"There is no link between hungry families and this crime - only a desire from a minority of individuals who think it is acceptable to behave in our community like this.

"Unreported incidents like this are commonplace; as a community we have a responsibility to report everything that is linked to these crimes in order to allow resources to be allocated.

"With joined-up reporting from farming communities and members of the public we can all play our part in putting an end to this barbaric and sadistic behaviour."