ANIMAL lovers have now increased the reward to find two ‘cowardly thugs' who allegedly kicked a gull until it was blind.

The incident took place at around 8.30am on Monday in Lord Street, Barrow where two teenagers were allegedly seen 'kicking the gull like a football'.

The young gull, named Sammy, was later euthanised as a result of his injuries.

Bardsea Bird Sanctuary co-owner Elisabeth Ashleigh, Ian Wheddon from The Mobile Man and other animal lovers are now offering a £250 reward to anyone who might have information.

Mrs Ashleigh said: “I’m sure that most people wouldn’t wilfully harm these little birds even if they didn’t like them, and it’s evident that many do care enough to show their disgust and sadness.

“Out of yet another tragedy we can only hope that these cruel cowards get punished for what they’ve done in the hopes that they don’t do it again. I can only think that there is no punishment or place bad enough for them.”