Dangerous dog alert after sheep deaths

A dangerous and aggressive dog is being hunted by police after it attacked and killed a number of sheep.

The public is being warned about the animal - a Bernese mountain dog - which remains on the loose in Gloucestershire despite being shot and wounded by armed police.

The dog is believed to have been missing from its home for several days and has attacked and killed sheep in Cliffords Mesne, near Newent.

Police said it is thought to have become aggressive and attacked the sheep on Tuesday evening.

"Police were called to farmland and tried to approach the animal to safely remove it but the animal was aggressive and officers were unable to contain it," a Gloucestershire Constabulary spokeswoman said last night.

"Due to the potential harm to the public and other animals in the area firearms officers shot and wounded the dog.

"The officers believed the dog had been destroyed but, despite a search of the area, the animal wasn't found.

"Officers continued to look for the dog during daylight.

"A member of the public reported seeing a dog acting aggressively in the area this evening and armed officers are currently continuing their search in the area.

"Anyone who sees the animal is advised not to approach it and to call the police immediately by dialling 999."