A rogue deer causing chaos inside a Swindon allotment has gone missing. 

The animal somehow found itself inside Redcliffe Street allotments in Rodbourne, and ended up trapped there, forcing Central Swindon North Parish Council to close the site. 

Attempts to remove the deer, including a vet's attempt to tranquilize it, proved fruitless and council officials had to go back to the drawing board. 

On Friday, April 28, a small section of the metal fencing that surrounds the gated allotment was removed, but it was unclear if the wild creature was still inside. 

In an update on its Facebook page, a Central Swindon North Parish Council official said: "Unfortunately, absence of evidence isn't evidence of absence.

"We've checked Redcliffe St Allotments [Friday] morning and can't see the deer."

Swindon Advertiser: The fenced-off Redcliffe Allotment in Rodbourne, Swindon, with warning signs on the gate telling members of the public it was closed because of a deer inside.The fenced-off Redcliffe Allotment in Rodbourne, Swindon, with warning signs on the gate telling members of the public it was closed because of a deer inside. (Image: Newsquest)

As a result, the facility remained closed on that day. 

But, after no more sightings of the deer were reported, the decision was made to reopen the area over the weekend.

The parish council spokesperson said: "We think the deer has left, but until we can be completely sure we're asking allotment holders to help by observing the following until further notice:

"No dogs on site under any circumstances

"No use of machinery (rotavators, strimmers, etc)

"And if the deer is still on site, please let it be, leave it in peace, and call us on 01793 466499 to let us know."

The council said they would check to see if the deer was there on Saturday evening, and if it was they'd arrange for it to be netted and removed on bank holiday Monday.

"Thanks again for everyone's understanding regarding the closure. We appreciate that it has been an inconvenience for you," they added. 

But when Monday had come along there were still no sightings of the elusive deer, which was last spotted the Thursday before.

As a result, the council confirmed the allotments were fully open, and there were no longer any restrictions on dogs and machinery. 

"Can you spot the deer? We can't either.

"It's not been sighted since Thursday, so we're confident that it has gone. Either that or it's developed ninja levels of stealth.

"Redcliffe Street Allotments are now fully open, and the temporary restriction on dogs onsite, and the use of powered machinery is lifted."

They added: "Thanks again for your patience while we dealt with this matter."