A MAN who discovered the mangled carcass of a sheep says it may be evidence of a "big predator" roaming South Worcestershire.

Alan Lewis, who was visiting the area from London, came across the bloodied remains of a large sheep in Pirton Park on Saturday afternoon.

The 64-year-old said: "I came across what I think is a fresh kill by what I think is a large animal in the area.

"The sheep was a big sheep and it had been killed within 24 hours. Its neck had been completely eaten away and its left front limb was completely missing.

"Even a big dog fox couldn't have done this damage. It is a big predator. I wouldn't speculate - I would just say it is a big predator."

The civil servant, who has an interest in strange phenomena, had travelled to Worcestershire after reading reports of a "black panther" sighting in the area.

He took photographs of the mauled sheep, but fell asleep on the train back to London and had his camera stolen.

However, he says the sighting is "verification" of a terrifying account told by Worcester couple Robert and Nicola Ingram, who say they were stalked by a huge 'black panther' earlier this year.

Now the Camberwell resident is urging members of the public to be vigilant and ensure children are kept safe when playing in the garden.

He said: "This was obviously quite a big animal. I do not think it is dangerous.

"I do not think there should be some hunt for it, but I think people should be aware and not let toddlers go out in the garden in the evening and just keep an eye out for it."