Farm attraction 'devastated' after sheep shot

The sheep was given pain relief and antibiotics

Staff at a farm attraction said they had been left "completely devastated" after a sheep was shot and injured.

In social media message posted on Sunday, Baylham House Rare Breeds Farm, near Ipswich, said: "To our absolute horror one of our sheep has been shot."

Farm manager Kate Ockelton said it was not yet known who had targeted the animal, and the farm's team feared the incident had distressed the rest of the flock.

In a statement, Suffolk Police said: "A sheep was shot in the front left leg some time on Sunday morning – up until late morning. Weapon not known."

Animals 'scared'

It happened as the animal grazed beside a footpath on Mill Lane. The force's rural crime team is investigating.

"We are in shock and completely devastated," Ms Ockelton said.

"She was part of a tupping group for our February lambing next year, and this will have almost certainly caused her enough stress to reabsorb her pregnancy.

She said the animals were now scared and the farm "may well lose more lambs to this incident".

She added: "Livestock are so vulnerable to these types of attacks, along with dog attacks. It’s just so sad and devastating."

The sheep had its wounds cleaned and was given pain relief and antibiotics.

The farm and Suffolk Police are appealing for information.