POLICE are appealing for information after two ferrets, four hens, and one duck were attacked.

The incidents all took place at the Castletown Allotments at Gilwilly Lane, Penrith, sometime between the 6-8 April, after unknown offenders broke into the allotments.

Police said the following animals were killed or injured:

- One ferret killed with a blunt instrument

- One ferret stabbed with a sharp garden instrument

- Two hens had their necks broken

- One hen had its head removed

- One duck was sustained serious injuries to its beak, and had to be put down

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Inspector Dave Willets for Eden Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “These are horrific crimes, which have caused the people who own the allotments a great deal of distress. There is absolutely no excuse for animal cruelty, and we are working hard to identify those responsible.

“We are appealing to anyone in the local community who may have any information, or may have seen some suspicious activity in the area, to come forward and let us know as soon as possible.”

Richard Lovell from Penrith was the owner of the ferrets that were killed. He said: “I am shocked that this taken place, and just can’t understand the mentality of whoever did this. I urge anyone who may have seen anything to get in touch as soon as they can. This has resulted in a lot of damage to our allotment and been very upsetting.”

Nick Bellas, chairman of the allotments, said: “It is absolutely disgusting what has happened. They have caused a lot of damage and distress, and have attacked innocent animals. The allotments are an important hobby for some people, and I don’t understand how people can do this to them. If anyone has any information that could help the police, do let us know so we can track down those responsible.”

Anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious or has any information about these incident should contact Cumbria Police on 101, asking to speak to PC Danielle Dixon.

Alternatively they can ring the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.