Noticeboard

●● A POLICE sergeant has reminded dog walkers that it’s illegal to have out of control pets in the forest.

Sgt Simon Degg, from Macclesfield Police, has said officers are committed to dealing with rural crime and as part of this they are increasing patrols in and around Macclesfield Forest. One of the aims is to protect sheep from attacks by dogs.

He said: “We want people to walk their dogs and enjoy the forest but they must keep them under control.

“It’s illegal to have a dog dangerously out of control in public.

“It’s about how we educate people and we’re patrolling the forest with the PCSOs to make sure people know when they should keep their dogs on a lead.

“If people are worried, there is help they can get to keep their dog under control.”

The warning comes after United Utilities - which manages Macclesfield Forest - joined forces with the Peak District National Park Authority to reinstate signs to urge dog walkers to keep their pets on a lead. This is so they don’t pose a risk to people or wildlife.

Farmer Nigel Hammill reported two incidents of his sheep being attacked in his field at Langley in recent months.

He said: “Four of our sheep were mauled by a dog or dogs beside the footpath across the Hollins between the golf course exit and the next stile on the way to Langley Village. This followed a similar incident in the same place in February. There are notices asking folks to keep their dog on the lead through our farm, but many people are ignoring this, and we still see loose dogs with owners well behind.

“Most people are very responsible but even one loose dog can cause devastation and immense suffering.

“These sheep are still alive, but likely to lose a leg, in spite of care, and the pregnant ewes may well abort.” ●● THE ANNUAL Parochial Church meeting will take place on Sunday, April 26, at 11.45am in the Sutton St James church hall.

Residents are invited to attend, find out what is going on and share views. ●● AN ORGAN concert will take place at a church in Wincle on Saturday, April 25, 7.30pm.

Professor Ian Tracey, principal organist at Liverpool Cathedral, will give a concert on the recently donated Makin organ in St Michael’s Church.