SHEEP rustlers appear to have struck at a farm in Wensleydale.

Three Suffolk Cross lambs were taken from a field near Spennithorne at the weekend.

Initially, the owner thought they may simply have wandered on to neighbouring land.

However, a search has proved fruitless and, since the animals disappeared, the farmer has discovered a ewe with bite marks around its neck, suggesting a dog had also been loose in the field.

Anyone who saw strangers or an unfamiliar vehicle near the village, or anyone acting suspiciously recently, is asked to contact local police.