Bull chased by police through city streets after escaping 'from abattoir'

A bull on the loose in Perth was pursued by police through the city after it reportedly escaped from an abattoir.

The animal was followed by officers in cars and vans in the Inveralmond Industrial Estate area shortly after 8am on Tuesday.

An eyewitness told STV News that officers were able to herd the beast off Dunkeld Road and into Muirton.

Perth Grammar School was alerted and closed its gates as all pupils were directed inside for their safety.

Police Scotland said the bull continued into a residential area where it was then contained. However, despite efforts being made to recover the creature, officers said it had to be killed.

A council spokesperson said: “[Perth Grammar] was alerted to the escaped bull at 8.40am by Police Scotland.

“To ensure the safety of pupils, parents and staff the school gates were closed to vehicles and all pupils were immediately directed into the building.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We were made aware of a loose bull in the area of the Inveralmond Industrial Estate in Perth shortly after 8.10am on Tuesday, October 26.

“Unfortunately the animal continued into a residential area where it was safely contained by officers.

“All efforts were made to recover the bull but sadly the animal had to be destroyed at the scene.”

Perth and Kinross Council has been contacted for comment.