A WOMAN has spoken of her anger after a dog caused the death of a lamb at a farm in Ambleside.

The dog, which was being walked off its lead by a member of the public, chased a group of sheep which resulted in the death of the lamb.

Family friend Grania Cookson, who was present at the incident, urged people to be more vigilant when walking their dogs on farmland.

She said: “Please keep your dog on a lead around livestock especially in the countryside even if you can’t see any sheep.

The police were called to the incident after the dog owners reportedly failed to comply with the sheep owners at the farm.

Cumbria police commented: “We are investigating a reported incident of sheep worrying that occurred at Skelwith Bridge, Ambleside, on Monday, May 3 at 3.20 pm.

“The report was that of a large brown dog, stated to ‘look like a bull mastiff’, was out of the owner’s control and worrying sheep. It is reported that one lamb was killed as a result of the incident.

“As a result of this incident, police would like to remind all dog owners to keep their dogs on leads when near livestock.

“If a dog injures or kills livestock, it is a criminal offence for which the person in charge of the dog will be held liable.”

Sheep worrying is a criminal offence and many animals and livestock are at risk in rural areas popular with dog walkers.

A spokesman for Cumbria police: “Sheep worrying is an offence under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953.

“Dog owners must remember to keep their dogs under control and on a lead around farm animals and wildlife.

“We would advise all dog owners and walkers to adhere to the Countryside Code which offers advice on walking dogs responsibly near livestock and wildlife.

“The stress alone of being chased by a dog can kill livestock, please keep your dog on a lead.”