Police are investigating after multiple sheep and alpacas were killed in part of Kent last week.

It's thought the group of sheep, alongside two alpacas, died after being attack by dogs in Nettlestead and Yalding, near Maidstone.

Overnight between Tuesday, August 16 and Wednesday, August 17, two sheep died and 10 more were injured in a field near Maidstone Road.

While overnight between Thursday, August 18 and Friday, August 19, two alpacas were attacked and died of their injuries in a field near the first incident.

Police Sergeant Darren Walshaw said: "We are appealing to anyone with information that may assist the investigation to call our appeal line.

"As part of our inquiries we are seeking to identify the person responsible for two dogs that resemble dark and light coloured lurchers, that have been seen unsupervised in the area."

A spokesman for Maidstone Borough Council said: "The council is aware of the sad fatalities of sheep and alpacas last week.

'Sadly around 95% of sheep farmers have experienced dog attacks...'

"MBC understands that Kent Police is working with the local community to identify the perpetrators and if anyone has any information that may assist Kent Police in connection with their investigation, please get in contact by telephoning 101.

"Members of the public are reminded that sheep worrying is an offence, and are asked to make sure that they have control over their dogs at all times whilst near livestock and to report any incidents of sheep worrying to the police."

Last year figures from the National Farmers Union (NFU) revealed there was more than £1.5million in claim costs across the UK for dog attacks on farm animals, including £266,000 for the south east alone.

An NFU spokesman said: "Sadly around 95% of sheep farmers have experienced dog attacks on their sheep at some point in their career and sadly attacks on camelids are also common.

"Despite tougher legislation, the problem is no better and more education of dog owners is needed, as well as tough action by police."

Anyone with information should call Kent Police on 01622 604100 quoting crime reference 17-0281.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form on their website.