SIX sheep have been killed in an attack on a farm near Jodrell Bank, the Knutsford Guardian hears, just hours after reports of another 26 slaughtered in Pickmere.

Following the news of 26 sheep and lambs brutally slaughtered in a field on Pickmere Lane by what police believe to be 'dangerously out of control dogs', reports have now come in of a a separate attack on six sheep on the farm on Holmes Chapel Road. 

The incident, which happened some time over the weekend, was called in by the farmer after he saw the first article on the Knutsford Guardian website. 

Rural officers are actively patrolling and are looking at all leads including poachers using dogs to hunt rabbits. 

Wildlife officer, PC Lesley Long will lead the investigation at the Lower Withington farm, and PC Jim Day will continue to work on leads for the attack in Pickmere. 

Police are yet to determine whether the two attacks are linked and are urging anyone with information or who may have seen dogs or people with dogs in the area to contact them on 101. 

Knutsford rural crime officer PC Day is  also urging people to ensure that their pets are kept secure to minimise the risk of any further incidents. 

More information to follow as the investigation continues...

Follow this link for more information about the previous attack.