A driver has 'deliberately killed' sheep and lambs in a field in North Dorset.

Some of the animals were so badly injured that they had to be shot.

PC Sebastian Haggett of the Dorset Police Rural Crime Team made a video appeal on social media for information about the horrific crime.

Behind him in the field in the Tollard Royal area, eight of the dead sheep can be seen.

A total of 14 were killed as a result of the driver's actions which took place sometime between 7pm on Sunday (July 17) and 6.15 the following morning.

In the short video, the officer said that the sheep and lambs were deliberately killed by a vehicle trespassing in the field and running them over.

Some of the animals were left with such horrific injuries, including broken legs, that they had to be shot.

PC Haggett said: “We are carrying out a full investigation into this matter and I would appeal to anyone with information that may assist our enquiries, including anyone with dash cam footage, to come forward. It is likely that this vehicle would have obtained damage through this incident.

"This is an appalling attack against a hard working farming community and against live stock. We will step up our patrols in the area.

"If you see a vehicle in a field and you suspect the vehicle may be committing offences such as illegal off roading, poaching or damage to crop I would urge you to ring 999. This week is anti-social behaviour awareness week and it so important that we continue to drive down rural crime and anti social behaviour in our rural communities."

READ MORE: Teenager arrested after sheep and lambs deliberately mowed down by car

PC Haggett is clearly distressed as he ends the video with a request for anyone with information about the incident to get in touch by calling 101 and quoting reference number 55220115601.

Alternatively they can share information online at dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk

To stay 100 per cent anonymous, they can contact Crimestoppers online or call them on 0800 555 111.