North Yorkshire Police are appealing for witnesses after a sheep was brutally attacked.

The "worrying" incident happened just outside of Stokesley.

It happened in a field where the A172 joins Thirsk Road by the River Leven.

The police do not have an exact time for when the incident happened but they believe it took place between the evening of Tuesday (6 February) and the morning of Wednesday (7 February).

The sheep suffered deep puncture wounds and broken neck bones.

It had to be put down as a result of the attack.

Police are appealing for any information that might help understand the circumstances of the incident.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: "It happened in a field where the A172 joins Thirsk Road by the River Leven, between the evening of Tuesday (6 February) and the morning of Wednesday (7 February).

"It involved a sheep being attacked by a dog, with the sheep suffering deep puncture wounds and broken/ splintered neck bones.

"The sheep had to be put down as a result of this attack.

"Police are requesting the public’s assistance to help establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

"In particular, officers are appealing for information about anyone seen walking their dog in the field during this time.

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"Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should email Hannah.Lancaster@northyorkshire.police.uk.

"You can also call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2, and ask for PC Hannah Lancaster. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

"Please quote the North Yorkshire Police reference number 12240023364."