A dead roe deer was found at the National Trust's Woodchester Park and may have been the victim of a big cat

A walker found the carcass of a roe deer at Woodchester Park near Stroud last week, and reported it to experts, who have been analysing samples from the body.

The injuries on the deer’s carcass seem are thought to be evidence of a big cat attack.

Big cat expert Rick Minter, who has written a new book on the mysterious beasts, said studying the deer’s remains could provide useful evidence of the creatures roaming the countryside.

“Studying likely evidence such as this will help us become more informed,” he said.

“Local people who watched the carcass being examined appreciated that this was being studied in a responsible manner and that they are to be kept closely informed about the matter through their local newsletter and a forthcoming meeting.”

Mr Minter added that close-up encounters with big cats are extremely rare.

“Their hearing and movement are exceptional, which helps them avoid close contact with people,” he said.

“In the event of a close-up encounter you should stay calm and face towards the animal as you back off, but not threaten or aggravate it.

“The chances are it will have backed off very quickly first.”

National Trust head ranger for Gloucestershire David Armstrong said any signings of a big cat at Woodchester Park can be reported by email to nature@nationaltrust.org.uk