CAMPAIGNERS have raised hundreds of pounds in reward money to catch thugs who mutilated a badger.

An anonymous donor offered an initial £100 after reading how the badger was found with horrific injuries at the side of the road near Bradley Hill, in Ovington, near Tilbury Juxta Clare.

The body was slit open from throat to stomach and all four paws had been hacked off.

It is believed the initial injuries were caused by dogs, before the badger was mutilated by humans.

News of the donation was publicised on Twitter and within hours had been tripled.

Renee Hockley-Byam, chairman of the North East Essex Badger Group, fears the badger was a victim of hunters and wants to ensure it does not become common practice in the area.

Speaking about the reward, she said: “It is such a wonderful gesture and shows how much people care.

“It is nice to know there are good people out there, when we deal so much with horrible people.

“It is lovely of them. The reward is quite a carrot, so somebody might come forward with a name.”

The reward will be paid if the information leads to a prosecution.

Anyone wishing to add to the total, or has information on the attack, is asked to contact the badger hotline on 07751 572175.

Essex Police’s wildlife officer, Andy Long, is also investigating the incident and can be called on 101.