Owner of red setter dog sought after fatal attack on roe deer at Harpford Common

East Devon District Council is attempting to trace the owner of a dog that attacked and killed a roe deer on Harpford Common.

The attack, reported by the RSPB, happened at around 9.30m on Tuesday, October 22.

A red setter with a thick black collar was spotted in the area at the time and is believed to be responsible.

Appealing for the owner to come forward, the council stated on social media: “The dog was running loose with the owners nowhere to be seen.

“We would like to speak to the owner of this dog, who we expect will live locally to Sidmouth or Newton Poppleford.

“As with all dogs, if the owners cannot keep them close by and under control, they must keep their dogs on a lead so that more wildlife is not harmed.”

Anyone with information about the dog or the incident on the common is urged to email environmentalhealth@eastdevon.gov.uk or call 01395 517456.