Walkers and cyclists near Shrewsbury are being intimidated by large dogs that have killed hens and worried sheep, a parish council claimed today.

A police investigation is under way and officers have advised the council in Wroxeter that people can shoot any dogs if their livestock is being attacked and they have tried all other methods to drive them away.

The dogs are believed to be Rhodesian ridgebacks, a large breed of hound traditionally used for hunting large game in South Africa.

Wroxeter parish clerk Roger Pittaway said the problem came to light 18 months ago when horse riders complained dogs were intimidating them.

And he added that in the last few weeks there had been reports from farms in the area that the dogs had killed hens and worried sheep with lambs.

Mr Pittaway said: “The owner doesn’t seem bothered. I’ve contacted the police and dog warden. The dogs will be shot if they go near sheep.

“There are two dogs we know of but there could be more, we’ve been unable to verify that. They have started chasing people on bikes which is obviously not a situation we want to continue.”

Constable Dave Harte, who polices the area, confirmed he had been contacted by the council and was liaising with the dog warden.

He said: “I will look into the matter and I have advised Mr Pittaway that the police need an official complaint with positive ID of the dogs before we can speak officially to their owners.

“People have the right to protect their stock if they are being attacked on their land up to and including shooting the offending animals if all other methods to drive them away fail.”

Shropshire Council spokeswoman Jennifer Fullard said the authority was also helping the police with their inquiries.

She said: “We are aware of the situation and will be liaising with the police to identify any necessary action.”

Anyone concerned about the issue is asked to contact police on 0300 333 3000.

By Emma Kasprzak