Appeal after sheep injured in Gosport.

We are investigating after two incidents where sheep were injured at Alver Valley Nature Reserve in Gosport.

We were called shortly after 3:30pm on Tuesday 30 April about objects being thrown at the animals at around 1pm on the same afternoon.

Three children were seen in the area at the time.

On Wednesday 1 May shortly before 5:45pm a second report was received of objects being thrown at the animals. Officers attended, and as part of their enquiries six people have been arrested on suspicion of animal cruelty and criminal damage: a 12 year-old boy, three thirteen year-old boys, and a girl and a boy who are both aged 14 years-old. They have been released from custody without charge, but remain under investigation.

Enquiries are ongoing and we are keen to hear from members of the public who may have seen what happened.

Sergeant Katie Clift from Gosport’s Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “Alver Valley Nature Reserve attracts many people from across the area, especially when the weather is good. Did you see what happened or anyone acting suspiciously in the area? If so, please call 101 to let us know.

“Officers from the Neighbourhood Policing Team have regularly been patrolling the area and have been speaking to schools and other education groups to provide reassurance and progress our enquiries. You can find out more about the Neighbourhood Policing Team by following @GosportPolice on Twitter”.