A dead seagull has been found with its heart ripped out after allegedley being hit by a catapulted projectile.

An eyewitness has recounted seeing the aftermath of the attack which took place near Otterden Close in Ashford on Tuesday, at the same time as homes were also targetted by the weapons.

The horrified Kennington resident said: "I was passing through and a small child was holding up a dead and bloody bird.

"I advised him to let go of it, go home and wash his hands. They went on to explain to me that it was a dead seagull that a group of kids had catapulted to death and had taken out the heart.

"They asked me if I would call the police, but I advised them to get straight home to tell their Mum and ask her to phone the police as I have no idea who this gang is or names or descriptions.

"I think they may have been hanging out near the old police station but can't be sure.

"It was disgusting. It was apparently a seagull - so the kids said - but it was just a bloody body with a couple of tail feathers which the little boy was holding it up by.

"Taking the heart out of that bird is seriously sick and doubt if they would worry about hurting people, especially if on their own."

KentOnline revealed that Ashford sees the most reports of catapult crime in Kent, with windows being frequently smashed and people suffering injuries.

Speaking about the recent incidents on Otterden Close, a police spokeswoman said: "Kent Police was called to a reported disturbance involving a group of young people in Otterden Close, Ashford on Tuesday, October 8.

"Officers attended the area however the group had dispersed prior to their arrival."

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