Dead deer found strung up in tree in Eling recreation ground, Bartram Road, Totton

A dead deer was strung up in a tree at a recreation ground, discovered by a shocked dog-walker.

The incident at Eling rec, on Bartram Road, was reported to police just after 7am this morning (Friday).

Clare Murphy, who reported it to the town council, told the A&T: “I was walking my dog when I spotted it by the old oak tree.

“It was very upsetting to see this poor helpless animal had been killed.

“There are no deer around Eling, so someone must have travelled in a vehicle to put it there.

“Hopefully they will catch the person [responsible].”

Another local, who asked not be named, said she had reported it to police.

She told the A&T: “The deer had been hung from one of its legs with rope around the big tree by the youth club.

“I thought they may have had it removed before families were walking to school, I did say it would not be nice for children to see.”

A spokesperson for Totton and Eling Town Council, which owns the land, confirmed the animal had been removed.

A Hampshire police spokesperson told the A&T it was investigating the incident and enquiries were “ongoing”.