SIX teenagers have been charged in connection with the killing of a pregnant sheep, police said on Friday. It follows a joint investigation between police and RSPCA officers after a ewe, named Helga, was found dumped in a wheelie bin stabbed to death and having been dragged through Wells on March 23.

SIX teenagers have been charged in connection with the killing of a pregnant sheep, police said on Friday.

It follows a joint investigation between police and RSPCA officers after a ewe, named Helga, was found dumped in a wheelie bin stabbed to death and having been dragged through Wells on March 23.

Five youths were arrested the following day and had been ordered return to Wells police station on Friday.

The six charged were all male and from the Wells area. Three were aged 17, and the others were 15, 16 and 19. The 15 to 17-year-olds cannot be named for legal reasons. Police did not release the name of the 19-year-old.

They were all charged with being jointly concerned in causing unnecessary suffering to an animal and being jointly concerned in causing unnecessary suffering to an animal by inflicting physical injuries resulting in a sheep's death.

They were also charged with aiding and abetting others to kill a sheep.

All have been granted bail and ordered to attend a hearing at King's Lynn Magistrates' Court on May 19.

Helga the ewe was among a flock of rare breed sheep and goats in a field off Polka Road in Wells.

The killing of the animal sparked outrage and an outpouring of support for the owners, especially to keep the sheep where they are.

Owners John Green and Yvonne Asbury have since seen their remaining Hebridean and North Ronaldsay sheep give birth to seven lambs and their Bagot goats, also a rare breed, give birth to five kids.

One kid, abandoned by its mother, has been cared for at the couple's home and named Bella or “the goat in a coat” because she has wearing a hooded jumper made for a Yorkshire terrier.

“She's doing really well,” Mr Green said. “She's put on weight and is up and about now. She's really lovely.”

Mr Green added there are only about 60 registered Bagot nanny goats in the country. In total they now have 17 goats and 20 sheep, but hope to sell some on.

Contact Mr Green on 07828 291237 for more information.