CALLS have been made to tackle yobs causing trouble at a beauty spot.

Police have stepped up patrols at the riverside walk along the Frome in Dorchester following multiple reports of anti-social behaviour - including a shocking attack on a duck using a catapult.

Similar reports were made last year.

Residents believe CCTV should be installed to help deter troublemakers.

Dorset Echo: Concerned residents have suggested more could be done to bring a stop to the behaviour, especially with a swan family of seven cygnets nesting along the river.

One local said: “It’s sad but it is a sign of the times - they could install a camera in the area to deter people. I have walked the path for years and noticed fewer ducks but I think that is due to increased dog walking."

Dorset Echo: A resident in the area said: “I’ve heard the reports and luckily the police have stepped up their patrols, but unless the area is patrolled all the time - which it can’t be - then this will happen.

"As long as the cygnets at the top of the bank are protected from this point as their care is important."

Dorset Echo: Another added: “How could anyone harm a small animal? It breaks your heart to think there can be cruelty in the area and it makes you keep more of an eye out.

“Installing CCTV would be useful especially during the time that ducklings and cygnets are nesting.”

A concerned dog walker said: “It’s usually such a pleasant area and walk.

“I’ve never noticed any incidents, but I think it’s more of a problem in the evening. The best thing is to increase patrols as installing cameras would be like cracking a nut with a hammer.”

Dorset Echo: Steve Newman, Dorchester Town Council town clerk, said: “The town council is aware of the anti-social behaviour along the river walk in respect of ducks being shot at with catapults and would urge any members of the public that might see anything to call 999 at the time they see any persons committing this criminal offence."

He added: “The council is pleased that the police are also patrolling the area."

Last year, the police reported that 20 ducks were killed along the walk by yobs using catapults. 

Cllr Les Fry said: "I'm disappointed to hear of anti-social behaviour again this year, following the previous attacks from last year as people enjoy seeing the ducks grow and thrive. 

"I would urge anyone who has seen or thinks they have seen an incident to report it immediately to the police. 

"It's good patrols have increased and we could consider CCTV along the walk but that would be a shame, however we do need to protect the wildlife along this beautiful walk in Dorchester."