DOG owners in Darlington are being urged to keep their pets under control after two sheep were chased into a river near the Redhall estate.

It happened at around 7pm on Monday (April 13) when two light-coloured husky type dogs were seen to be worrying sheep on private land at Great Burdon Farm.

Two of the flock were chased into the river and had to be rescued by the farmer.

Although they were shaken, the sheep were uninjured.

Police say the dogs’ owners were about 200 metres away when their pets were chasing the sheep.

Witnesses described the pair as a white man and woman, both of slim build.

The man appeared to be in his late thirties and was wearing a dark coat with red shoulders, while the woman was thought to be in her late teens and was wearing dark clothing.

They were last seen walking off towards Kempton court area with the dogs.

Darlington Police are using the incident to remind do owners of their responsibilities around livestock.

They warn that owners can be prosecuted and fined up to £20,000 and/or given a prison sentence of up to six months if their dog is found to be dangerously out of control.

The dog may also be destroyed.

A police spokesman said: “Dog owners are reminded that worrying livestock on private land is an offence and in certain circumstances the farmer may use legitimate force to neutralise the threat to his animals.

“Please act responsibly when you are out with your dogs before a person or another animal is unnecessarily injured - or worse.”

If you have any information which may help Darlington Police with their enquiries in to the Great Burdon incident, contact 101, and ask for PC Jim Edwards.