Yobs attack flock of sheep

Police are trying to identify youths who attacked a flock of sheep in a field at Hesketh Bank last night, killing one lamb and leaving others in a distressed state.

Witnesses say five members of a 20-strong group climbed over an electric fence near the village’s cricket club and carried out a sickening attack on the animals.

CCTV footage from the nearby Hesketh Bank Community Centre is being reviewed to see if any of the offenders can be identified.

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The incident was witnessed by several people who challenged the group and called the police. The youths dispersed before officers could reach the scene.

One local put out an appeal on social media to help police trace the callous attackers.

His message said the youths had “deliberately targeted” the sheep.

“A group of approximately 20 youths had congregated on the Hesketh Bank cricket pitch when five of them crossed a ditch and electric fence to attack the sheep.

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“Neighbours put an end to the incident which left all the sheep clearly distressed. The owners of the sheep attended within minutes and found one lamb dead.

“The youths regrouped onto the cricket field, but had dispersed before police arrived.

“The Parish Council CCTV which monitors the area is being reviewed.

“If you have any information which may help the plice with their enquiries please contact them on 101.”

The attack was roundly condemned on Facebook. One said: “What horrible people. Here’s hoping they are caught and named and shamed.”

Another posted: “Disgusting behaviour, I hope they are caught.”