Twenty-seven pregnant ewes have been killed in a dog attack.

Scores of livestock were found dead in a field near Deerton Street, Teynham, Sittingbourne, in what police have described as "possibly the worst livestock attack we have ever had".

The flock, who were all believed to be pregnant with twins and triplets, were attacked between Christmas Eve and 1pm on Boxing Day.

Officers believe one dog is responsible, but aren't ruling out more being involved.

The force is looking for anyone who may have seen or heard anything, including reports of barking being heard between 4pm and 5pm on Christmas Day.

PC Marc Pennicott, of Kent Police’s Rural Task Force, said: "This is a distressing incident which is possibly the worst livestock attack we have ever had.

"Animals have needlessly lost their lives..."

"The sheep would have been petrified and had no way of escaping.

"We believe they may have been attacked by one dog but cannot rule out that more dogs may have also been responsible.

"The farmer has not only suffered a financial loss due to this incident but animals have needlessly lost their lives.

"These dogs would have been covered in mud and returned home exhausted and we are committed to identifying their owners.

"Sheep targeted were pregnant with twins or triplets and the remaining livestock have also been left vulnerable to a further attack, so it is extremely important that we find who is responsible for these dogs as quickly as possible."

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call police on 01795 419119, quoting reference 26-0510.

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