A RURAL crime boss spoke of the devastating impact "constant" livestock worrying incidents can have for farmers.

The comments from North Wales Police rural crime team manager Rob Taylor come after a call from Denbighshire Council to dog owners.

Huw Rees, the council’s countryside and heritage services manager, said: “We are reminding all dog owners, including those who have a dog for the first time, to be responsible with their pets and to keep them on leads when walking through the countryside with livestock, particularly during lambing season.

“Livestock worrying, where dogs disturb and chase sheep, is illegal.

"Dogs caught worrying livestock can be destroyed and owners can be prosecuted, this is a distressing outcome we want to prevent.”

Mr Taylor's team of rural officers has been pushing for a change in the law relating to livestock attacks, stating the current legislation "isn't fit" for the present day.

He said: "We had an incident in Prestatyn on Monday but this problem isn't just in Denbighshire - it's everywhere.

"We regularly see incidents. It's a constant thing which doesn't stop.

"We are seeing declines in all sorts of rural crimes, but the message on livestock worrying just isn't getting through.

"We are seeking to bring the law up to date so that message is much clearer and that is currently with Parliament.

"This is not just about the death of a farm animal.

"When a farmer loses any animal, it can have a huge impact - financially and mentally.

"It means a lot to them."

In addition to keeping dogs on leads, those visiting the countryside in Denbighshire have been urged to respect the environment and act responsibly, by not littering, parking sensibly and only to riding bikes on routes where cycling is permitted.