A GROUP of "reprehensible" criminals who are thought to have murdered swans and torn across a golf course in a car are being sought by police.

Officers have linked the two incidents after a finding the bodies of three birds dead on common land next to the Newbury and Crookham Golf Course last Thursday.

Earlier on February 25 a number of people in blue hatchback were spotted driving over the same course, causing criminal damage.

Police believe the same people were behind both offences and have sent out extra patrols around the east of Newbury in their search for the perpetrators.

Sgt Andy Bone, of Newbury Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "There is a recurring criminal damage issue in the rural area immediately to the East of Newbury.

"The incidents, which are believed to be linked, are not increasing in frequency or severity however the Neighbourhood Policing Team has been undertaking enhanced patrols and community engagement to try and identify the offenders.

"The irresponsible and reprehensible actions of a small minority are impacting on the wider area and local businesses and we are doing everything we can to see the offenders brought to justice. In the meantime our patrol activity will continue.

"We are appealing to local residents for any information they may have regarding these ongoing incidents."

Anyone who knows anything about the death of the swans or saw the car on the golf course between 12.25am and 2.25am on February 25 is asked to call the police non-emergency number 101.