Duck patrol plea after 'mindless' catapult attacks

Volunteers are stepping up patrols on a stretch of river after further attacks on wildlife.

Residents in Dorchester, Dorset, reported ducks being attacked with catapults on the River Frome and pigeons being targeted in the town centre.

Following a spate of similar incidents in the spring, Gillian May set up Dorchester Duck Patrol and she is now appealing for more people to help.

Dorset Police thanked members of the public who had reported concerns, saying officers had been handed "clear footage" of young people believed to be involved.

May said residents had reported a new "spate of attacks... resulting in needless pain and death of our beloved ducks".

She said volunteers had come from as far as Weymouth to help patrol the river.

"So grateful to think someone will travel the distance to help our Dorchester ducks," she said in a Facebook post.

The neighbourhood policing team (NPT) said it would also continue its patrols.

Dorchester NPT said: "We are sadly well aware of recent reports of wild birds being mindlessly targeted with catapults on the River Walks in Dorchester.

"Many thanks to the members of public who have taken the time to report their concerns to us and provided us with evidence.

"As a result, we have managed to secure clear footage of a group of young people who are suspected to be involved in the latest incident.

"We are continuing to make enquiries to identify all members of the group, so they can be dealt with appropriately.

"Anti-social behaviour and cruelty towards animals will not be tolerated."