A motorist has deliberately run over 15 sheep, either killing or maiming them, in what police have described as a 'callous' crime.

Kent Police said the animals were found dead and injured in a field in Wrotham, West Kent, just after 9am on Monday.

Those that had not been killed in the attack were in great pain and distress with limbs missing and broken and they had to be destroyed, a police spokesman said.

The sheep were found in a field off the A20 London Road, which is also opposite the Tower industrial estate.

The gate to the field had been opened and there were tyre tracks on the ground.

Police found part of a black moulded bumper bar and a serial number proved it came from a Mark I Land Rover Discovery.

Inspector Adrian Allen said: "This is a terrible crime that has resulted in great pain, distress and suffering and it is difficult to imagine who could do such a callous thing. We are keen to establish a motive for this attack as quickly as possible.

"If anyone knows someone with this type of vehicle that has sustained bumper damage or hears or knows anything that they think is relevant, they are urged to call the police."

The field is owned by the St Cleres estate near Kemsing but the sheep farmer is from Sussex.