A pig has died after it was stabbed several times in what has been described as a “brutal attack”.

Hertfordshire Constabulary says officers were called to reports of an animal in distress at a field off Elstree Hill South, near the Elstree Hill roundabout, around 8pm on Saturday, January 16.

Officers found a pig had suffered multiple stab wounds, the force said.

It died from its injuries.

Police are investigating the incident and are appealing for witnesses and information following the attack.

Detective Constable Jennifer Mills, who is investigating, said: “We are conducting extensive enquiries, with the support of officers in our Rural Operational Support Team (ROST) to establish the circumstances surrounding this incident. It is clear that the animal was subjected to a sustained and brutal attack.

“I would like to appeal to anyone who may have any information about what happened to get in touch with me as soon as possible. I’d particularly be keen to hear from anyone who was driving in either direction along Elstree Hill South A5183 between the hours of 7.30pm and 8.30pm that has a dash cam fitted to their vehicle.

“Any information, even something that may seem relatively minor, could be key to our investigation.”

Information can be reported by calling 101 quoting 41/3974/21 or online at online at herts.police.uk/report.