DOG owners have been urged to keep their pets on a lead after reports of livestock worrying in rural Oxfordshire.

Thames Valley Police South and Vale posted on their Facebook page last night, notifying people of such reports in Blewbury near Didcot.

Wantage-based officers wrote: "It is an offence to let your dog worry sheep, and this includes chasing them. Please also keep to footpaths and dogs on leads, especially when livestock are in the area."

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Livestock worrying refers to a dog attacking or chasing animals, most commonly sheep.

This time last year, a sheep at the Earth Trust in Little Wittenham had to have stitches after being mauled by a dog.

It prompted a desperate plea from the charity for dog walkers to take better care when out with their pets.