Two women have been charged following two separate alleged incidents of sheep worrying.

A 47-year-old woman has been charged following an incident in Netherley at 11am on March 2, which involved a Husky-type dog.

The incident resulted in the death of five sheep as well as injuries to several others.

A 24-year-old woman has been charged following a second incident at around 12pm on the same day in the Stonehaven area.

No sheep were killed as a result of this incident, however, they were chased and distressed by a Gordon Setter-type dog.

Officer Liam Mercer said: "Sheep-worrying type incidents obviously have a financial impact on the farmers as well as causing distress to the other animals.

"Farmers are legally entitled to protect their livestock which can result in the destruction of a dog by shooting it.

"While no farmer wishes to resort to this option it is an option available and one that could quite easily be avoided if owners ensure that they have proper control of their dogs.

"Anyone with concerns or information regarding a sheep worrying incident should contact police on 101."