Two newborn lambs have been beaten to death in a west London park, in what police describe as a “despicable” attack.

The animals, less than a day old, were killed by thugs in Bedfont Lakes Country Park between 4.30pm on April 10 and 7.30am the next day.

One lamb was found dead in a tree and the second had to be put down by a vet due to its injuries.

Police say the lambs were not attacked by another animal.

Other lambs were also injured in the attack but are expected to recover.

All sheep have since been removed from the park for their own safety.

Police in Hounslow want to speak with three male youths seen in the area before the incident.

The first is described as white, aged 16-18, tall, of chubby build with scruffy dark ginger hair which was gelled / swept forward.

The second is also described as white, aged 16-18, of average height, slim build with short dark brown hair, a thin face with an obvious gap between his top two front teeth.

And the third is described as white, aged 16-18, of slim build, with short brown hair.

Investigating officer PC Jody Whitehouse said: “I am appealing for any information to this despicable act which has not only caused distress to the owner but also to members of public who use the park and see the sheep on a daily basis.

"I am also appealing to the three males to contact us, or anyone who recognises them from the descriptions to contact us, so we can speak to them regarding this incident."

Anyone with information can contact PC Whitehouse at Feltham police station via 101.To remain anonymous contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org