Deer found savaged in woods

The incident happened last Thursday at Judy Woods in Wyke and was witnessed by horrified passers-by.

Now police and councillors are urging visitors to the woods to be on their guard.

The dogs, which are believed to be a great dane and a terrier, attacked and killed the deer just after 11am on the Woodside estate end of the woods.

Peter Walker, from the Friends of Judy Woods committee, said he had spoken to the witness about the incident.

He said: “It is concerning because if people’s dogs are going to the woods and attacking deer, then they could be a danger to other dogs and dog owners who use the park.”

A police spokesman added: “The man, believed to be the owner of the two dogs, was seen to have picked up the deer and thrown it deeper into the woods at some point during the attack.

“The RSPCA have been informed, and the police’s wildlife officer is also looking into this case, but if anyone else has any information, we would urge them to come forward.”

The man is white, middle-aged, around 5ft 8in and wore a blue jacket.

Wyke councillor David Warburton condemned the attack and said: “People should not let dogs off leashes in the first place, let alone let them attack deer in the woods.

“If the owner of these dogs is found to be responsible for the attacks, the full force of the law should come down on them.

“We are supposed to live in a more approving society – we can’t go round having people hunting with their dogs, it’s barbaric.”

Police have urged any witnesses who may have information about the incident to call the non-emergency 101 number to provide any information.