Herd of 100 boar freed from farm

A number of the boar have already been spotted on the road

A herd of 100 boar have been released from a farm in Devon.

Police said they suspected animal rights extremists broke down the fence enclosing the boar at the farm at West Anstey in north Devon.

Some animals were spotted on Thursday on a road between Bampton and Newbridge. Local residents reported the boars trying to get into their gardens.

Police said the animals could be dangerous and should not be approached. They also told motorists to beware.

A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesman said: "Police are open-minded as to why the damage was caused but cannot rule out that it was a deliberate act to set the animals free.

"Motorists in the area are being warned in case the boars stray on to roads in the area. They do not appear to be dangerous unless provoked."

Police have issued a number for people to call if they spot any boars: 08452 777 444.