MORE than 200 sheep were stolen from a farm in Dorset.

Police investigating the theft say the livestock are worth over £20,000, with each sheep valued at £95.

The incident happened between Friday, March 22, and Monday, April 8.

The 211 stolen sheep are mainly Suffolk, Texan and cross breeds.

The tag numbers are 230336 and 341825.

Police Constable Matthew Brennan, of Dorchester police, said: “This theft, as with many crimes in our rural community, has had a big impact on the victim.

“We are carrying out a number of enquiries to find those responsible."

“We would also urge farmers and members of the rural community to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity they encounter," he added.

Any witnesses or anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact police on 101, quoting occurrence number 55190052667.

The theft happened on farm land alongside the A37 near Dorchester.

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