Merseyside man jailed after killing gull in Blackpool
CCTV captured man stamping on bird
Last updated 26th Nov 2025
A man from Merseyside has been jailed for six weeks after he repeatedly stamped on a gull, killing the bird in Blackpool.
Anthony Nurse, 29, of Hurstlyn Road in Allerton, Liverpool, was sentenced last Wednesday (19th November) at a remote hearing at Preston Magistrates Court. He had pleaded guilty to an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 at an earlier hearing.
CCTV footage from Springfield Road in Blackpool showed Nurse kicking out at a group of gulls on 17th December last year. One bird became trapped under his foot and the court heard that Nurse stamped on the gull’s body three times before walking away. The animal died as a result of the injuries sustained.
The footage was sent to the RSPCA, who appealed to the public for information. Nurse was eventually identified and interviewed but initially denied involvement. He was later arrested for unrelated offences and brought before the courts.
RSPCA Inspector Daniel Tomlinson, who investigated the case, described the distressing footage and highlighted the challenges gulls face.
“The footage of what happened to this poor gull was distressing to watch and we'd like to thank the person who got in touch with us and enabled this investigation to go forward,” he said.
Tomlinson added that gulls are often targeted and misunderstood, with the RSPCA receiving reports of deliberate cruelty towards them every three days.
“We think it's important we promote understanding about these unique and fascinating birds, how they deserve our compassion and respect, and that there are serious conservation concerns about some species.
“We will continue to work to protect and prevent cruelty to all animals, including those which are less popular or misunderstood.”