������̳

Owners of three dogs have been served with dog control notices (DCNs) after reports of sheep being attacked in Easter Ross, according to Highland Council.

The local authority said several sheep were seriously injured and five later died in an incident in Hilton, near Balintore.

Two people were served with DCNs last Friday, and the conditions include ensuring the dogs are kept on leads when being walked.

Police Scotland, which carried out a joint investigation with the council, said it was aware of concerns in the local community about the dogs.

Highland Council environmental health manager Alan Yates said: "Our service is aware of the public concerns in respect of this case and hope that the action taken helps provide some reassurance to the public that further steps have been taken in response to the sheep worrying incidents."

Ch Insp Calum Smith added: "Officers are liaising with a range of partners to address and resolve the situation."