Police are searching a person who reportedly attacked a seagull with a cricket bat in a Dorset seaside city.
The man allegedly swung on the hen on Marine Parade in Lyme Regis round 3.50pm on Sunday 17 July.
The animal suffered a damaged wing and needed to be put down, Dorset Police stated.
The assault occurred close to Poco Pizza whereas the beachfront was busy with guests, together with many kids, the pressure stated.
The suspect was described as white, aged in his 50s and about 5ft 10in tall.
He is alleged to have spoken with a South African accent and was carrying a Jim Beam-branded T-shirt and a gray hat.
Police Constable Josh Hurwood, of West Dorset police, stated: “This was a distressing incident for folks to have witnessed, with many younger households within the space on the time and we’re finishing up an investigation, with help from the RSPCA, to establish the person concerned.
“This occurred on the seafront at a busy time of day, and we are appealing for anyone who saw what happened, or who has any information relating to the man’s identity, to please come forward.”
A spokeswoman for the RSPCA stated: “We are working with police to investigate this incident. Sadly, a gull was seriously injured and had to be put to sleep.
“Anyone with first-hand details about what occurred ought to contact police or the RSPCA enchantment line on 0300 123 8018.”
Anyone with any info is requested to contact Dorset Police on 101 quoting incident quantity 55220115158.
Source: information.sky.com”