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Police have confirmed that they are investigating death threats sent to a farm by furious vegan protesters.

A farmer was bombarded with death threats and branded a murderer after he offered shoppers the chance to choose, name, feed and look after their Christmas turkey for two months - before it's slaughtered.

Farmer Mat Carter, 35, of Greendale Farm Shop posted the offer on Facebook - and hoped it might simply attract a few extra orders and likes from local customers.

But vandals broke into the farm to protest over the unique offer and sprayed huge graffiti on the glass entrance.

The protesters also sprayed bright blue paint all over dead pheasants - on sale to customers - that were hung by the shop front.

Local officers are now investigating the incident and have condemned the protesters' actions.

Neighbourhood beat manager Dave Pilling, said: "I have today visited Greendale Farm and met with the owner and staff, following the criminal damage to the shop front and produce sustained overnight on Monday.

"I am also aware of some alarming calls made to the store in recent days.

"I will be meeting one of the people who was subjected to this abuse in the coming days to follow up on this matter.

"Criminal damage and making malicious calls is against the law and will not be tolerated; regardless of individuals views, these actions are simply not acceptable and cannot be justified.

"Police enquires are underway into this matter, anyone with any information is asked to contact 101@dc.police.uk."

Mat said he had been despondent and was considering taking the post down after his staff began being inundated with angry phone calls.

But on Tuesday, after clearing off the blue paint with petrol, he said he was overwhelmed by the positive response from the public, with dozens of turkey orders and the busiest day ever in the farm shop.

"To be honest the original offer was a bit tongue-in-cheek," he said. "I didn't really expect people to bring their kids in after school every day and look after their own turkey.

poll loading Is the 'pick your own turkey' idea a good one? 500+ VOTES SO FAR Yes, people should connect with the food they eat No, people should not eat turkey for Christmas

"When I walked in this morning and we had the graffiti on the door I thought 'this is a disaster'.

"But ever since then the amount of support we have had has been incredible - today will be a record-breaking day in the shop. Business is absolutely booming."