Twelve sheep were stolen from a field near Thame over the Christmas period, police have revealed.

Six of the animals were butchered on Christmas Eve in a field next to the M40 at Tetsworth and their carcasses dragged across another field and over a fence to a waiting van.

The next day, another six sheep were taken from the same field, although these were not slaughtered.

Police believe a large van would have been needed in each case and are appealing for motorists who used the M40 between junctions six and seven during the Christmas period to cast their minds back to see if they remember any suspicious activity.

Call Pc Rob Miller or Pc Kevin Davies at Thame police on 01844 264920.