Police are appealing for information after two Roe deer were found dead on New Year’s Day in a wood in Bolton-le-Sands – and are searching for a white van seen in the area of the killings.
The deer were found by a dog walker in stream in a small wood adjacent to Pasture Lane. It is thought they had been there for several days and examination of the carcasses revealed they were killed by a crossbow or similar weapon.
Local Wildlife Crime Officer, PC Massingham said; “The use of a crossbow to kill any animal or bird in the UK is prohibited and carries a heavy penalty. This is a cruel mindless act committed by someone with total disregard to wildlife or animal welfare.
“In particular, we are eager to speak to and locate, the occupants of a white Ford Transit van, which, was seen driving slowly on Pasture Lane several days before the carcasses were found.
“I would appeal to anyone who may have seen this van or seen any other suspicious activity in the area to come forward and contact us.”
• Anybody with any information can contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or on-line at Crimestoppers-uk.org.No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.