JUST DAYS before they were to be released, scores of young pheasants have been stamped, trampled and kicked to death in an orgy of slaughter that has appalled a veteran gamekeeper.

Police are now investigating the wanton barbarity that took place in the Raith Estate on the south-east edge of Kirkcaldy and has astonished gamekeeper Peter Wood.

“The birds were about 12 weeks old and were in pens in the forest,” said Peter.

“I’ve been around blood sports for some time but I’ve come across nothing like this, it’s just sickening.”

Although some birds fled, around 45 were trapped against netting and beaten to death.

Local youths have been seen in the area but the carnage was only discovered when staff made a routine check on the birds.

Fife police spokesman Inspector John Jenks said, “This was a particularly disturbing crime causing obvious distress to the helpless birds contained within the pen before they were killed.

“Raith Estate is a private estate but there are several points around the perimeter where the public can gain access to the estate grounds.

“Initial investigations indicate that the perpetrators of this particular crime may have gained access to the estate from the Dunvegan Avenue area of Kirkcaldy and we are appealing to anyone who can help us with our investigations to contact us on 01592 251111 or any local police station.”