A DOG owner has been told to pay compensation to a farmer after letting their pet attack and kill a sheep in Herefordshire.

West Mercia Police said the sheep suffered multiple injuries and was put down as a result of the attack on common land adjacent to Jubilee Drive in Colwall, near Ledbury.

Officers said it was around 11.30am on Saturday, July 31 when the Border Terrier-type dog attacked the ewe, with the owner then interviewed by officers.

They said they were issued a community resolution order, a way of dealing with low-level crime, due to the dog being dangerously out of control in a public place.

"The owner has been ordered to pay £240 to the local farmer in compensation and must have the dog muzzled and on a lead at all times on common land," officers said.

"Livestock worrying is illegal and we would like to remind dog owners to ensure that their dog is kept under control at all times where livestock are present."

West Mercia Police and the Malvern Hills Trust said they take sheep worrying incidents "very seriously" and urged anyone with concerns to get in touch.