Police investigate after severed pig heads were left beside a 'here piggy piggy' sign in a County Down park

Early on Saturday morning, a pig's head was found impaled on a large wooden stake at Kilbroney Park in Rostrevor, County Down, with several more heads scattered in the surrounding area. Families visiting the park over the Halloween break were advised to avoid the site as the PSNI opened an investigation, stating they were keeping an open mind about the motive.

Independent councillor Mark Gibbons said those responsible had gone to 'great lengths', and noted that the weight of the stake posts pointed to adults rather than children being behind the act.

A 'here piggy piggy' sign was found alongside the heads; Gibbons issued a warning to those involved: 'If you think this is some kind of joke, you may think again.'

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council said it has engaged the PSNI and relevant partners in its response, and is hopeful that CCTV footage from the village will lead to the identification of those responsible.