Wow, today our petition hit 1000 signatures and featured in an article on The Portsmouth News!

Let's talk about the recent news article, in which Cllr Lee Hunt expressed the outrage felt by those at PCC regarding this cruel act. Whilst Cllr Hunt noted that Canoe Lake is part of the community wardens' daily patrols, it is evident that this degree of supervision is not enough to protect the wildlife in this area. 

Whilst this act and subsequent unlawful slaughtering of a wild swan has received public outcry, anecdotal evidence suggests that this incident is merely the tip of the iceberg. There have been several occasions at this location alone that intervention has been required to prevent foul and menacing behaviour towards wildlife at Canoe Lake, either with intervention coming from myself or other concerned and moral citizens.

Therefore, PCC must begin the process of assessing the required enablers to create a permanent base for community/wildlife wardens at Canoe Lake, so that their presence is clear and authority felt regarding the protection of wildlife.

Furthermore, an action plan with defined deadlines should be published regarding the installation of signage, stating the legal and financial consequences of animal abuse and wildlife crimes.

Finally, we feel that Hampshire Constabulary should take this opportunity to notify the public if/when the suspects are identified, in order to reassure the public that law and order is being upheld, as the common people do not accept this form of behaviour and will not tolerate this degree of degradation in our youth.

I would like to reiterate my appreciation to those who pledged towards this cause and shared the petition to their network, you have been the difference in keeping the signatures coming! ✨