Cornish Mutual work with South West rural crimes team to tackle livestock worrying

South West insurer Cornish Mutual is working with rural crimes team across the South West to tackle the ongoing problem of livestock worrying.

Cornish Mutual launched the initiative to support its farming Members, who are affected by the problem all year round. The insurer has so far donated more than 1,300 free signs, which remind walkers to keep their dogs on leads while around livestock.

Richard Cuzen, is displaying the notices at Manor Farm in Dorset. He said: “Sadly, we have experienced regular incidents of dogs chasing our sheep, and even attacking them. It is very unpleasant to lose or see an animal in distress after it’s been attacked, and it not something you get hardened to.  Insurance can support the financial loss but can’t cover the burden of losing the animal.”

PCSO Tom Balchin, Rural Engagement Officer with the Dorset Police Rural Crime Team, said: “Last year, there were 51 reports of sheep worrying and dog attacks in Dorset, and we are up to 38 this year already. The signs are vital to remind dog owners, who are perhaps not from the area, that when they take their dogs out into the country they need to respect livestock.”

Nick Bunting, Field Force Inspector at Cornish Mutual, said: “We created the signs as a direct response to our farming Members, who told us about the ongoing problem they face with sheep and cattle being chased and attacked by dogs. The notices demonstrate Cornish Mutual’s commitment to farmers, our Members and the rural community.”