Dog owners are being warned to keep their pets on leads whilst walking around livestock after a sheep was mauled.

The animal was discovered in Loose Valley and is believed to have been killed by a loose dog.

The attack happened between 11am and 2pm yesterday in a field opposite Brickfield Cottage.

Warning: graphic image below.

The picture was posted on the Loose Amenities Association Facebook page.

A user reminded people that when notices are up sheep are grazing in the valley, even if they are out of sight.

They added: "Please keep your dog close or on a lead when the sheep notices are up. For the sake of all of us dog walkers there is always one end of the valley sheep free."

The body was moved to a nearby pen to prevent further attention from animals to be disposed of in a proper manner.