MINDLESS idiots are shooting birds and taking drugs at a wildlife reserve.

Furious families have blasted “thoughtless” yobs after discovering injured and dead birds after they were targeted at Kendal Park Nature Reserve, in Hullbridge.

Angry parents said the reserve is well-used and children have spotted the dead birds.

Brian Hough, 44, of West Avenue, said: “I’ve seen the birds and it’s so distressing and awful.

“I go to the reserve with my young children and it’s not what you expect to see.

“These people must be caught and dealt with, what they are doing is disgusting.

“We will not be putting up with this and it must stop now.

“I’ve also been there and seen groups of youths around who are smoking and dealing cannabis.

“There is a strong smell of the drugs if you go the reserve during the day and evening.

“I’ve called Hullbridge Parish Council a few times and the council is dealing with it.”

Linda Cox, 56, from Hullbridge, added: “I am so angry about what’s been happening; I think it’s absolutely vile.

“We will not stand for these yobs who seem to be intend on ruining our reserve.

“There is no reason or excuse for this sort of behaviour at all.

“I hope these idiots are caught and punished very soon, we cannot have this going on here.”

Furious parents took to Facebook to post angry messaging slamming the yobs who are shooting birds and causing a nuisance at the town’s beauty spot.

It has caused huge fury online with other residents joining the discussion.

A spokesman for Hullbridge Parish Council said: “Hullbridge Parish Council is aware that a report of birds being killed by an air weapon or catapult in Kendal Park Nature Reserve is on social media and evidence of dead birds have been seen.

“Rochford District Council’s community safety officer and Essex Police are investigating the incident.

“Antisocial behaviour is evident in the village, including in the Nature Reserve, and we have been communicating with the Community Town Policing Team and our Special Constable who Hullbridge Parish Council are sponsoring. Matters are trying to be resolved.

“We urge any resident to call 101 or crime stoppers or report online any anti-social activity they see.”