Warwickshire police offer advice to dog owners and walkers

The force is asking communities to be mindful about where they walk during the coronavirus lockdown.

It's because there's been a number of concerns raised by farmers and landowners about people trespassing onto land and leaving gates open.

The force says there's also been a number of incidents where lambs and ewes have been chased and killed after being worries by dogs.
 
Rural Crime Officer Carol Cotterill said: “We do understand people are at home a lot more at the moment, and many of us like to take their daily exercise in the  open countryside if it is right on their doorsteps. 

“We would just ask everyone to please be mindful of their surroundings and to be responsible. By being considerate and reducing risks at this difficult time, it will make a difference and will help to support our farmers who are working extremely hard to keep shops supplied.

“Thank you in anticipation for your support on this. Remember to wash your hands when you return home, to abide by the government guidelines and to stay safe.”

NFU Warwickshire county adviser George Bostock said: “Farmers recognise the importance of the public rights of way network, especially at a time like this when people need to take extra care to maintain their physical and mental health, however, they should not be making unnecessary journeys.

“The health of those living and working in the countryside also has to be safeguarded and walkers need to be aware of their role in protecting rural people – this is also a busy time in the farming calendar with plenty of young lambs around and we ask dog owners to take extra precautions when walking through farmland and ensuring they are kept on a lead.”