PATROLS have been stepped up in a park in Darwen after a spate of bird shootings.

The remains of around 30 dead pigeons were found in Ashton Park on Monday night only days after six ducks and a goose were shot dead.

It is believed that the birds were the victim of an air-rifle killer who has been terrorising the park.

Yesterday the Lancashire Telegraph also reported that a family from Darwen feared that their pet cats had also been shot.

The park is a popular spot for dog walkers and children to feed the ducks.

Residents are calling for more to be done to catch the culprit as they say that it is no longer safe to visit. One residen said she reported the dead pigeons to the council after her son found them on Monday night.

She said: “I don’t think it is safe to take children to Ashton Park anymore. I have a five-year-old girl and she was devastated about the ducks being killed.”

A police spokesman said: “Patrols have been increased in the park after these incidents. We have also sent out letters to people living in the vicinity appealing for information.”

Coun Zamir Khan, lead member for Leisure and Culture, said: "This disgusting act is obviously a matter for the police.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.