Warning over deer on roads during mating season

People are being warned to watch out for the animals on roads in Shropshire

A Shropshire wildlife rescue charity says it has seen an increase in the number of accidents involving deer.

Drivers are being warned to watch out for the animals on roads in the county after accidents rose during the autumn rutting season as stags fight for territory.

Cuan Wildlife Rescue community fundraiser and events manager Tina Cooke said deer "can and have been known to charge at vehicles if they're in a particularly angry mood".

She stated: "Not only can you hurt the deer, if and when you hit them, they can also hurt you, because they really can be quite large.

"If you see a deer on the road, hit the brakes, slow down as much as you can.

"Do not veer onto the other side of the road and if you see one, just wait a little while, 'cos there are likely to be more that will be following."

Nearby Staffordshire County Council has said that nationally it was estimated 74,000 deer-related incidents occurred every year.

During the deer rut, the animals were "more active, particularly around the morning and evening rush hour," it added.