A DEER'S head has been found in an area where hunters have been targeting a small herd of roe-deer.

Police are increasingly concerned for the safety of the small animals and residents in the area after reports of gunshots in Crawshawhall Woods, off Burnley Road, Crawshawbooth.

Residents who watch the deer are also helping police by forming a deer watch group.

The group is carrying out regular patrols of the woods to protect the animals and challenging anyone who is seen acting suspiciously.

Last year residents spotted 12 deer but this year the numbers have dropped to just seven.

Rossendale wildlife liaison officer PC Dale Pollard said: "A deer's head was found by a woman walking in the area and we know that one of the animals was killed in a farmer's yard after being chased by dogs and another was killed in a road accident, but that still leaves a couple that can't be accounted for.

"We have had reports of people shooting in the woods but we are not sure what ammunition they have been using.

"The woods are close to the main road and we are concerned for the safety of the deer and members of the public. There is also an old folk's home in the woods."

The deer are about 18in to 2ft high. They live in the woods and graze on nearby fields. PC Pollard said: "If anyone sees anything suspicious they should call the police out.

"We had a report of lights in the wood at a few days ago and the police helicopter was called to check the area along with local police officers but no-one was found.

"We are concerned about the animals' safety and don't want to see any more of them killed.

"If anyone sees people acting suspiciously contact the police on 01706 215242."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.