DOG walkers are being warned to control their pets after a sheep died following a dog attack.

The sheep was put down after it suffered "severe" injuries, with graziers witnessing three sheep-worrying incidents in one week.

On two occasions, the graziers were able to step in and stop the dogs from causing harm to the sheep.

Sheep-worrying, which includes chasing, is a criminal offence and could see dog walkers fined or, in extreme cases, the destruction of their dog.

The Malvern Hills Trust confirmed details from the attack, which led to the sheep being put down, have been passed onto the police.

Beck Baker, community and conservation officer, said "We're shocked that so many livestock worrying incidents have occurred over the last week.

"Each and every incident is distressing for the livestock and the graziers who care for the animals.

"These incidents can be stopped by people putting their dogs on a lead at all times near livestock.

"We’d like to remind dog walkers that any dog, big or small, docile or aggressive, has the potential to chase or kill livestock so all dogs should be kept on a lead near grazing cattle and sheep."

Witnesses to livestock worrying incidents are encouraged to call the Trust on 01684 892002 to ensure veterinary treatment can be administered swiftly and also to the police on the 101 non-emergency number or online as a record of the offence.

To help dog owners plan their walks and know when to put their pet on a lead, Stockwatch is published online every week with the locations of the grazing compartments on the Malvern Hills and Commons.

A weekly Stockwatch e-newsletter is also available with subscribers receiving an email with the locations of the trust's grazing compartments each week.

Livestock are an essential part of the management of the Malvern Hills and Commons. The cattle and sheep eat the bramble, scrub and young trees and this maintains the open grassland habitat.

This keeps the landscape special and benefits the geology, archaeology, wildlife found here, as well as maintaining access and views for visitors.