A GANG of youths were spotted attacking swans, geese and ducks by throwing rocks and other missiles at them.

The young thugs lured in the defenceless animals with the promise of food and then attempted to kick them in the head or hit them with rocks competing for “best shots”.

Witnesses said the vile behaviour took place at Smallgains Lake in Canvey with the RSPCA appealing for information.

Castle Point councillor Janice Payne said: “This is absolutely vile behaviour, these kids think they can go and do what they like, they have no respect.

“It’s half term, surely they can find something better to do than hurt innocent animals.

“If it was my son I would be totally ashamed, I just hope this is an isolated incident that won’t happen again.”

Councillor Charles Mumford said: “Obviously I’m disgusted by this incident, speechless really. It’s outrageous this is happening, some just have no respect for property, people or animals.

“There will be something raised about this at our next meeting.”

A spokesman for the RSPCA said: “This sounds like an extremely distressing incident. If anyone has any information we would urge them to get in touch with the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.”

Councillor John Anderson added: “I can’t quite understand why this is happening when there’s so much for these kids to do like the seafront, Waterside Farm, the RSPB site, with it being half term especially. We’re blessed with an island full of volunteer groups, like the Baywatch group, where they could go if they’re bored.”

Canvey resident, Marion Brocklebank,63, added: “This is barbaric and a disgrace, what is it coming to. These kids are out of control, this is animal abuse pure and simple. Any acceptable parent would never tolerate this. It’s bad enough doing it to people, but to do it defenceless animals is horrific.”