SHOPPERS have been left stunned after more than a dozen pigeons were slaughtered in a town centre.

       Environmental workers had to be called to Town Square in Stoke-on-Trent to 'sensitively remove' the dead birds.

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       Shoppers' horror as pigeons were run over in Stoke-on-Trent town centre Credit: BPM Media

       Graphic images have been shared on social media of the pigeons laid out on the ground surrounded by blood.

       Some have responded to the posts online, saying that the pigeons were run over.

       Lee Pearce, 20, was in the area at the time and estimates there were between 10 to 15 birds. He said: "I was in disbelief."

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       Meanwhile Stoke-on-Trent City Council says the matter has been

       reported to the RSPB.

       Councillor Carl Edwards, cabinet member for housing and the

       environment, said: “This is an appalling incident and it has been

       reported to the RSPB.

       "It happened at around 4.20pm on Tuesday. Our environment teams have

       been out to visit the area and ensure that the dead pigeons have been

       sensitively handled and removed.”

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       Pictures of the pigeons were shared on social media Credit: BPM Media