Prize dog dies in firework scare

Skerry had competed for England in sheepdog trials

A sheepdog which represented England in trials is run over and killed after being scared by fireworks.

Skerry jumped over an 8ft (2m) fence in his owner's garden in Wigston, Leicester, and ran into the road where he was hit by a passing car.

Owner Nij Vyas blames the free availability of fireworks to the general public, for frightening pets.

He is now warning animals owners to keep pets inside on bonfire night.

"My wife told me Skerry had been run over, the sky was alight with fireworks," he said.

'Locked away'

"In other countries fireworks are restricted to public demonstrations only, they cannot be sold over the counter.

"We haven't got that, we've got children taking fireworks into schools and they are let off in parks during the day.

"I can't and no animal owner can keep their animal locked away 24/7."

After 14 years work getting to international level competition in sheepdog trials Mr Vyas will now have to start again with another dog.