STAFF at a Basingstoke farm have been left "heartbroken" after thieves broke in and killed a chicken and left other animals in distress.

Burglars broke into Manydown Family Fun, in Scraps Hill, Worting Road, on Tuesday and fatally injured one of the chickens, called Rosey. 

One of the farm's new ducklings is also missing, presumed stolen.

The thieves broke into the chicken and duck runs, leaving them all distressed, including a mother duck called Puddle.

They also forced their way into the catering department and stole soft drinks and family fun branded products.

Guy Drummond, owner of Manydown Family Fun, said staff were "heartbroken" after arriving at work on Wednesday morning to find the animals in distress.

He added: "It's such a kick in the guts because we open next weekend. But we are not going to be defeated by this."

Manydown Family Fun is a seasonal farm attraction offering families the chance to meet the animals and enjoy other activities including the popular Maize Maze.

There is also a farm shop on site and a cafe on board a double decker bus.

Mr Drummond said an alarm system is being installed, and added that the incident will not delay the attraction opening for the summer.

He urged people to get in touch with the police if they know anything about what happened, adding: "Please help us - if you heard anything about who might have done this cruel act then please contact the police on non emergency number 101, reference number 4415233064."