**Police Investigate Allegations of Children Chasing Sheep Over Cliff Near Newquay**
Authorities in Cornwall are looking into a shocking incident reported to have taken place in the picturesque Polly Joke area, near the well-known tourist destination of Newquay. According to Devon and Cornwall Police, children are alleged to have driven a sheep off the edge of a cliff on Sunday, 27 July.
Reports suggest that the situation quickly escalated when a bystander attempted to intervene. The police have stated that one individual, possibly an adult accompanying the children, responded with hostility and made intimidating threats against those expressing concern over the incident.
A police representative commented on the matter, saying, “We have received a report regarding an incident where a sheep was chased off a cliff near Newquay’s Polly Joke area on Sunday. It has also been alleged that someone involved became aggressive when challenged by a member of the public.” Officers are now investigating both the treatment of the animal and reports of threatening behaviour directed at witnesses.
This disturbing episode has provoked strong reactions from the local community, as well as animal welfare groups who highlight the risks faced by livestock in areas popular with tourists. In particular, the fact that children appear to have been involved has intensified calls for increased educational efforts around responsible conduct in the countryside.
Social media accounts have further fuelled public anger. A widely-shared post described witnessing a man, believed to be the father of the children, order his sons to chase a ewe over the clifftop. The post also alleges that when other visitors voiced their outrage, the man menaced them, claiming he would throw them over the cliff as well. The witness later reported seeing the same man near the entrance to Trevornick Holiday Park.
When contacted for clarification, Trevornick Holiday Park stated that there is no evidence to suggest the individuals involved were staying at their facility. A spokesperson for the park said, “We are very saddened by news of the sheep incident and have been in touch with the local farmer, who is well-known to us. At present, there is nothing to indicate those involved were guests, as they were not seen wearing any of our wristbands. To be thorough, we are carrying out our own investigation and reviewing records from the day.”
The holiday park also noted that a public bus stop is located very close to the reported scene, adding that it is possible the individuals may have used public transport rather than staying locally.
Polly Joke, officially known as Porth Joke, is a cherished stretch of coastline, celebrated for its natural beauty and home to a diverse array of wildlife, including sheep that graze the grassy clifftops. Incidents such as this have prompted renewed calls for both locals and visitors to respect the rural environment and its inhabitants.
Animal welfare advocates are urging greater awareness and accountability, especially during the busy summer months when footfall soars. Livestock can be particularly vulnerable during this time, as large numbers of tourists unfamiliar with countryside codes descend upon rural areas.
Police have appealed for anyone who witnessed the incident or has information regarding those involved to come forward. The ongoing investigation is considering both possible animal cruelty offences and public disturbances linked to the episode.
As the probe continues, the event has generated widespread debate both online and within the local community. Many hope it will serve as a wake-up call, reminding everyone of the importance of safeguarding the region’s wildlife and respecting those who live and work in such cherished landscapes.