RESIDENTS have been warned to be vigilant of the sale of suspicious meat.

The warning comes after three sheep on medication were stolen from a farm in Chaddesley Corbett over the bank holiday weekend.

Officers believe the sheep may have been taken to be illegally butchered.

Illegal butchery is a serious offence and has serious emotional and financial impacts on rural communities.

PCSO Kate Easthope said: "We're concerned that if the meat from these sheep has entered the food chain it could cause serious health issues for those who consume it. 

"For your safety, we would only advise buying and consuming meat from reputable sources.

"We've launched an investigation into this incident and I would ask that people contact us if they think someone is selling illegal meat."