SCARED sheep were savagely attacked in their field before fleeing to the banks of the River Severn and into the water.

More than two dozen animals were still unaccounted for last night.

Firefighters were called to Lower Hams, at Upton-upon-Severn, at around 1pm yesterday.

Initial reports suggested that one sheep was in the river, but 30 were rescued after Upton Fire Station's boat was launched.

Four sheep drowned and a further 25 were missing. It was unclear whether they had drowned or run off - although several later returned to the farm of their own accord.

"We couldn't believe what we were faced with," said Sub Officer Dave Walker, of Upton Fire Station.

"We couldn't get the appliances close to the water so the boat went into the river. We discovered many of the sheep tangled in the bushes - luckily it kept them afloat.

"It's obvious that these sheep were attacked in a field but we don't know what caused the injuries. They were particularly savage. I've never seen anything like it before.

"We searched the river for a long time and it was quite a big job. The boat travelled down as far as Tewkesbury.

"We were just glad that we managed to rescue so many."

The sheep were from a farm in Longdon Heath, near Upton-upon-Severn. One was found wandering under a bridge on the M50.

"Several of the sheep returned to the farm later of their own accord," said a spokeswoman for Worcester police.

"We're investigating what appears to be a case of sheep worrying in the area and would appeal to all dog owners to remember to keep control of their animals at all times."

Sub Officer Walker said the farmer was contacted and was "understandably not very happy" about the situation.

RSPCA inspector Julia Sly also attended the scene and firefighters finished their search at 4pm.