YOUTHS have been blamed for the death of three chickens after the birds were discovered by their owner covered in blood.
It is thought the chickens, which belonged to Laurence Sharratt, from Hartlepool, had been tortured using an axe and garden fork.
The attack, which happened at the town's Stranton Allotments on Thursday afternoon, has devastated Mr Sharratt, who rears the chickens for organic eggs.
It is thought youths had chased the birds into a corner before repeatedly hitting them with an axe and breaking their legs.
Mr Sharratt fears he will have to get rid of his three remaining birds for their own safety.
He said: "I don't think I can keep the chickens now because if people know they are there, this could happen again."
Anyone who knows anything about the incident, is asked to contact police on (01642) 302126, or the RSPCA on (08705) 555999.
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