Sheep rustling message from police as 45 stolen in Cheshire

Police have spoken out on the cruelty of sheep rustling after at least 45 were stolen earlier this week.

The sheep were stolen from a field near Davenham, Northwich in Cheshire, UK.

PC Tether of the Cheshire Police Rural Crime Team spoke plainly about the cruelty of the crime.

He said: "PCSO Graham and I attended a report of theft of livestock involving (at least) 45 sheep which have been taken from a field near #Davenham #Northwich.

"The cost of the theft is over £8,000, not counting any of the costs and time involved in nurturing and breeding the lambs.

"Livestock thefts of any sort are cruel, to the farmer that has taken time to raise their livestock, and to the animals which may be handled incorrectly.

"They are often removed in unfit and unsuitable vehicles breaching animal welfare regulations, and are sold illegally or slaughtered in an unethical way posing a risk to the food chain.

"Those involved in the theft of livestock will be dealt with robustly by police and prosecuted for such offences including breaches of animal welfare regulations and food standards."