A FARMER said he will shoot-to-kill dogs found worrying his sheep during the lambing season.

Richard Wade issued the statement after an alsatian cross-breed dog was seen in the middle of a flock of his sheep twice in the past week.

The first time the dog ran among sheep at Primrose Side Farm, Alum Waters, near Durham, Mr Wade was unable to get a clear shot.

At the weekend, Mr Wade was alerted by a bus driver who had again seen the alsatian in the field.

Mr Wade said: "This time the dog managed to run off before we could catch it.

"We think it is the same dog which has been chasing other livestock, including cows in calf and a couple of donkeys, and may have recently killed a cock chicken on a neighbouring allotment."

Mr Wade said he would not hesitate to shoot any dog caught worrying his sheep.

He said the flock of more than 200 represented a year's work.

"This is an old-style mixed farm, with cattle, sheep and corn," he said.

"It is run on traditional lines and we cannot afford to lose any of our sheep or lambs."

Rachel Gillbanks, the regional public relations officer for the National Farmers' Union, said Mr Wade was within his rights to take action against dogs.

Durham Police said that while there were circumstances in which the owner of livestock could shoot a dog worrying his animals, there was a possibility he could find himself having to justify his actions in civil proceedings.