Dogs banned from Caistor Roman Town after sheep attack

The Norfolk Archaeological Trust (NAT) said the decision will remain in force for the next few weeks as the charity decides whether to impose the ban permanently.

Natalie Butler, NAT director, said the incident happened last week and the sheep's injuries were "not survivable", prompting the sudden decision to close the site to canines.

Two more sheep were attacked at Caistor Roman Town, leading to dogs being temporarily banned from the site (Image: Natalie Butler)

"It's a temporary ban which will allow the grazier enough time to get his sheep off the land without fear of any more out-of-control dogs worrying the flock, which can be as large as 300," she said.

"Overwinter the animals usually graze on 22 acres in Dunston, just over the river."

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Prior to the ban, dogs were only allowed at the site if they were kept on a lead.

This was because of a number of previous attacks on sheep such as in September when one of the animals had its neck and back torn open by an out-of-control dog. 

Julie Kemmy, a site visitor, voiced her support of the ban, encouraging the trust to consider extending it indefinitely.

Natalie Butler, the site's director, said the sheep's injuries were not survivable (Image: NAT)

"Unfortunately I agree with many others that dogs should be banned from the site," she said.

"I used to walk there and try and talk to people who allowed their dogs off-lead and was met with abuse. 

"The owners who allow their dogs off-lead are not responsible owners and I don't think the trust has any other option."

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But Molly Mills, 28, a dog trainer and former full-time walker based in nearby Shotesham, thinks a full ban should come as a last resort.

She said: "It's a lovely walking site for responsible dog owners and it should be enjoyed by everyone.

"It's just such a shame because irresponsible dog walkers and reckless people are ruining it for people who understand the importance of the countryside code.

Dog trainer and local Molly Mills said the site can remain open to dogwalkers if precautions are taken to stop them from worrying sheep (Image: Molly Mills)

"Your dog may have the best recall in the world but at the end of the day, it's still an animal."

She suggests the best course of action is to keep dogs on leads at all times at the site rather than a blanket ban.

According to Natalie, visitor numbers will be carefully monitored in the coming weeks to determine what action will be taken next.