Lorry carrying 450 sheep overturns in Shropshire- driver trapped, many livestock lost

Emergency services were called to the A489 near Bishop's Castle at around 5pm on Tuesday after a lorry transporting approximately 450 sheep overturned.

Officers from the Bishops Castle Safer Neighbourhood Team attended the scene alongside firefighters, ambulance crews and specialist rescue teams after the vehicle tipped onto its side, trapping the driver inside the cab.

Firefighters from Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, including crews from Bishop’s Castle Fire Station, worked to free the driver.

Following assessment at the roadside, the driver was taken to hospital for precautionary checks. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.

A specialist livestock recovery team from Shropshire Fire and Rescue later joined local farmers and veterinary teams in a major operation to rescue the sheep from the overturned vehicle.

Many of the animals were safely recovered, although authorities confirmed that a significant number sadly died as a result of the collision.

Police have thanked all those involved in the response for their professionalism and teamwork during what proved to be a difficult and complex incident.

The collision caused disruption along the A489 while emergency crews carried out rescue and recovery work.