Youngsters with airguns have reportedly been killing ducks and a swan on the River Stour with an airgun.

The dead birds have been found by boatmen and people living along the river at Fordwich, near Canterbury.

One of the latest victims is the “pub duck” at the Fordwich Arms, and staff and customers are outraged.

Nicknamed Jemima, the bird regularly visited the riverside pub and was particularly popular with children who fed her. But she was recently found floating dead in the water, having been shot in the head.

Even more alarming was the discovery of a dead swan, which is also believed to have been shot.

Two teenagers, who have been seen several times on the cycle path beside the river with an air rifle, are being blamed for the killings.

Landlord of the Fordwich Arms, Sean O’Donnell, said: “I just can’t understand the mentality of people who do this sort of thing.

“The ducks and swans are a natural feature of the river and loved by our customers.”.

Barmaid Kate Boulding added: “We were appalled when we heard that ducks were being shot but it was the last straw when Jemima was killed.

“She was so friendly and would come to the jetty when we called her.

“Customers’ children loved her too, but we haven’t the heart to tell them what has happened.”

Pub staff and people living along the river are also concerned someone will get injured by a stray pellet.