Gull dies after being hit with a spade in Lyme Regis

The RSPCA have launched an investigation after reports of a man hitting a gull with a spade in Lyme Regis.

The animal charity has obtained images of a man who may be able to help them following the incident in Lyme Regis.

Eyewitnesses, who recovered the bird’s body to take to a vet, contacted the animal welfare charity after the gull sadly had to be put to sleep by vets because of the severity of the injuries.

RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Dean Wilkins, who is investigating for the animal welfare charity, said: “It’s never acceptable to attack an animal with a weapon. If anyone saw this shocking incident, we urge them to contact our inspectorate appeal line on 0300 123 8018.

“This was during the school summer holidays so we’re appealing to anyone who was in the area at this time and witnessed this, or who recognises the man in the picture who may be able to help us further.”

The man, who was wearing sunglasses, a purple t-shirt and shorts, was with a group of people having a barbeque on August 9 at around 7pm.

All wild birds are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and it is illegal - except under licence - to intentionally take, injure or kill wild birds or interfere with their nest or eggs.

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