POLICE are appealing for information following an incident of poaching near Dorchester.

Dorset Police received a report at around 11.50pm on Saturday, 28 June 2025 that a group of five people were trespassing on land near Stratton.

It is reported that a fence was cut to gain entry to the field and two sheep were killed.

The group fled in the direction of Stratton when their presence was detected.

Officers attended and carried out a thorough search of the area, but the group could not be found.

Police Constable Sebastian Haggett, of the Dorset Police Rural Crime Team, said: "We are continuing to investigate this incident, which has incurred considerable cost and distress to the owner of the land and sheep.

"We would urge anyone with information to please contact us.

"I am also keen to hear from anyone who was driving in the area of Stratton who witnessed any suspicious use of a vehicle to please get in touch."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55250093292. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.