Sheep killed and skinned in field

In total 97 ewes and lambs have been stolen from two farms

Police warned farmers to keep a close watch on their animals after dead sheep were found with their carcasses cut up for meat on two Northamptonshire farms.

A police spokesman said 97 ewes and lambs had also been stolen from the two farms in Ecton in the past week.

He said it was not possible to say how many had been slaughtered, adding: "We did find some animal parts. It appeared they had done a skilful job."

Local farmers and the National Farmers Union (NFU) have been informed.

One of the farms was near the A45 and the other in Washbrook Lane.

In one incident, 35 ewes and 40 lambs were stolen and in the other 14 lambs and eight ewes.

PCSO Natalie Halling said: "We would encourage farmers to be on the look-out for these offenders and to make sure all their animals are accounted for."