Youngsters use catapults to kill birds in Malvern

Police have identified youngsters using catapults to attack birds and have been punished for anti-social behaviour. 

Following the revelation, Malvern Gazette readers have taken to social media to express their shock and disapproval of the youngster's behaviour. 

Jeanne Millsom said: "Cruelty to animals is appalling, often these children who do things like this go on to commit more serious crimes. 

"We seem to be living in a feral society, where children are allowed to behave in this way."

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Jane McGee said the youngsters involved in the attacks needed to be educated on why wildlife crime is unacceptable. 

She added: "Maybe they should spend time at a bird rescue centre and learn to appreciate birds. 

"Also, where are they getting the catapults from?"

Claire McNally said she had seen youngsters using catapults to kill birds on more than one occasion, adding she shouted at them out the window. 

And Kelly Hitchins said hearing of this hurt her heart. 

Officers from the Pickersleigh and Chase Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) have been receiving reports of youngsters looking to kill birds with catapults in the area.

Those responsible have been identified by the Safer Neighbourhood team's PCSO Kev Tudge.

Officers have spoken to the youngsters in the company of their parents who are supportive of police intervention.

They have been placed on  Level 2 anti-social behaviour, which means should they come to police attention again within the next 12 months they could have conditions placed on them.

Should this happen, they could have a curfew placed on them, they could be banned from entering certain areas or be told not to associate with certain other youths.

Anyone with information on similar behaviour should call 101 or visit https://orlo.uk/gSHtW to contact police.