SHEEP theft, also known as 'sheep rustling' not only has a financial impact, it can also be devastating for farmers and their families, Cumbria Constabulary have said.

Cumbria along with the rest of the country has seen a rise in sheep thefts over the last year, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic. Concern is that the stolen animals are slaughtered in unregulated abattoirs and the meat then sold on the black market, undermining welfare standards.

A spokesman for Cumbria Wildlife Crime Unit, said: "This could in turn, pose a threat to human health.

"Unfortunately, many of those involved in these illegal activities are well organised, using quads and sheep dogs to load large numbers of sheep on to trailers late at night.

"We have also seen an increase in sheep being killed and butchered in farmers fields. This can be extremely distressing for farmers.

"Preventing sheep rustling is no easy task. However, there are measures that can be put in place by farmers to reduce the risk of theft and also trace stolen livestock."

The suggestions they gave for farmers are as follows:

• Ensure stock is clearly marked and records are up to date

• Check stock regularly and vary the times of feeding/checks

• Where possible graze livestock in fields away from roads

• Consider marking systems such as Tec Tracer

• Join Cumbria Constabulary Countrywatch on Facebook

Report any suspicious sightings to the Police on 101, this can be done by following the link or anonymously to Crimestoppers on or the Rural Crime Hotline 0800 783 0137.

Remember to always call 999 in an emergency.

Cumbria Constabulary are currently devising a new form for reporting livestock theft. This will give farmers and livestock owners a quick way to report theft and record all information required in a timely manner. Details on how to access this form will be posted on our Countrywatch websites over the next few weeks and on Cumbria Constabulary's social media pages.