WARNING: Below video contains upsetting scenes and extremely strong language.

AN INVESTIGATION has been launched into “horrifying abuse of sheep” at farms in Scotland, including one in East Lothian.

PETA Asia submitted a 12-page formal complaint and evidence to the Scottish SPCA last week.

That came after, according to PETA Asia, an eyewitness documented wool workers striking terrified sheep in the face with electric clippers, slamming their heads into the floor, beating and kicking them and throwing them off shearing trailers.

PETA Asia has asked the Scottish SPCA to launch an investigation and, if appropriate, file criminal charges against the workers for apparent violations of laws prohibiting cruelty to animals.

PETA Asia has released the following video. Viewers may find it upsetting. There is also extremely strong language.

Jason Baker, PETA Asia senior vice-president, said: “After exposing cruelty within the English wool industry, we’ve found the same horrifying abuse of sheep at farms in Scotland.

“Everywhere that eyewitnesses from PETA Asia and its affiliates go – from Australia and the US to South America and now the United Kingdom – they see the same disturbing behaviour.

“The production of all wool – no matter where it originated or what 'ethical' or 'responsibly sourced' claims are made on its label – spells extreme suffering and death for millions of gentle sheep and lambs.”

The claims focus on farms in Midlothian, the Borders, West Lothian, South Lanarkshire, Dumfries and Galloway, and Fife, as well as East Lothian.

No individual farms have been identified.

Mike Flynn, Scottish SPCA chief superintendent, said: “We can confirm we have received reports of alleged abuse within wool farms in Scotland.

“Our investigations are currently ongoing."