NEARLY 100 sheep have been stolen from a field in East Dorset.

A total of 32 Suffolk ewes and 62 lambs were taken from a field in the area of Mill Lane near Wimborne.

Police say the theft happened sometime between 12noon on Saturday and 1.15pm on Sunday.

It was also reported that there were tyre tracks in the grass leading from the scene.

The theft follows an incident last week where 50 pregnant ewes were taken from a field in the area of Hayward’s Lane near Child Okeford sometime during Tuesday night and Wednesday morning.

Police Constable Maddy Dysterre-Clark, of East Dorset police, said: “While at this stage we cannot confirm that the two incidents are linked, this is the second occasion in a short space of time where a large number of sheep have been stolen and is understandably likely to cause concern in the rural community.

“We are carrying out a number of enquiries into this incident and have been investigating CCTV opportunities.

“I am appealing to anyone who has any information or who witnessed any suspicious activity in the area over the weekend, such as any 4x4 or trailer movements at night, to please contact us.

“We would also urge farmers and members of the rural community to be vigilant and report any suspicious vehicle movements they encounter.

“For more information on how to protect your livestock visit www.dorset.police.uk/help-advice-crime-prevention/rural-crime/.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55180059716.