FOUR chickens were killed by "youths with catapults" at River Bourne Community Farm last night.

A post by the farm on Facebook says that around 9pm, four youths were spotted in with the laying hens, shooting them with catapults. Four were killed.

The youths were reportedly then scared off by a dog walker, and jumped through the front bramble hedge.

Their bikes were left at the scene and have been seized by police.

The farm is appealing for information, and said: "If you know someone who owns a catapult, who came home last night with brambles scratches, and without their bike - you might want to ask them some questions

"If anyone saw or knows anything please message us and we’ll pass information on.

"Please do keep an eye on the farm if you are walking around at night and report anything out of order.

"It’s incredibly upsetting and disheartening to have this happen when everyone has worked so hard to reopen the farm for everyone to enjoy - for free".

Wiltshire Police said: "We’re investigating an incident at the River Bourne Community Farm in Laverstock, which occurred at approximately 8.30pm last night.

"Four youths are believed to have entered the chicken coop and used a catapult to kill four chickens. They ran off on foot leaving bikes behind at the scene.

"Our enquiries are ongoing. Anyone with information should call 101 and quote crime refence number 54200091592."