POLICE investigating a report of sheep worrying and assault have released an image of a man they wish to speak with regarding the incident.

The incident is reported to have occurred on Sunday January 8 at around 2pm on the fells above Coniston Coppermines.

A walker is believed to have been in the area with his dog, off its leash and chasing and attacking sheep.

It is believed that one sheep died as a result of the incident.

The victim of the assault was not injured.

A Cumbria Police spokesperson said: "Sheep worrying is a criminal offence. Dogs chasing or attacking sheep can cause a great deal of distress, miscarriages, horrific injuries or even death. 

"Dogs caught worrying sheep can be shot in order to protect the lives of livestock.

"Those in control or ownership of the dog can be prosecuted and the courts have the power to impose a destruction order on your dog.  So please keep your dog on a lead around livestock."

Anyone who recognises the male in relation to this incident can report online at cumbria.police.uk/report-it quoting incident number 89 of January 8. You can also phone on 101. Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

  • Cumbria Police confirmed the man in the image contacted officers, identified himself and assisted in the investigation, which was closed.