DOG owners visiting a popular National Trust property have been warned to heed signs to use short leads.

The National Trust, which runs Croome Court, near Pershore, put out the warning after wildlife was harassed by dogs not on leads.

A spokeswoman for the Trust said: “Last year we had a female sheep chased by a dog off lead and sadly the animal aborted its offspring due to stress. Many of our ground-nesting birds such as our swans can be easily disturbed by unruly dogs, particularly as, at the moment, we have new signets.

“Not everyone feels comfortable around dogs and we’ve also had issues with hyperactive dogs bounding up to adults and children to play, frightening them.

“We want to create a safe space for all visitors to enjoy and we wish to remind visitors that dogs are welcome." The Trust says it provides tether points, water bowls and waste bins.