POLICE in Basildon have stepped up patrols in local parks after a rise in the number of incidents of cruelty to wildlife.

PCSOs and Officers from Basildon Community Policing Teams have been patrolling parks and open spaces within the following a rise in reports of youths killing wildlife.

A statement from Essex Police says: "It's a national issue that has recently been raised in the national news. Youths are filming themselves killing and torturing wildlife for fun using catapults and posting videos on social media platforms.

"It is an offence to kill or injure any wild animal listed in Schedule 5 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981, and it is also an offence to intentionally or recklessly damage or obstruct any place used for their shelter or protection.

"If you see this barbaric offence taking place please call the police with location and description of offenders. Please do not try and stop this behaviour yourselves, your safety is paramount.

"We will be working with local schools to identify the perpetrators and provide education to youths about the impact it has on wildlife."