DERBY'S famous water buffalo, Oink, has been targeted by

cruel thugs.

The popular animal, who lives in Darley Abbey, has had

bricks thrown at him, washing-up liquid put in his water trough

and his hay set on fire.

Now his worried owner, Katherine Moore, is asking people

walking near his Haslams Lane field to be on the lookout and

report any suspicious behaviour to her or the police.

Mrs Moore, of Darley Park Road, who has looked after

15-year-old Oink for the past three years, said the attacks

were getting more regular and increase around the summer

holidays.

She said: “He is a big old softie and all he wants is a bit

of peace. I just don't know why people would want to hurt

him.”

Oink, who weighs one-and-a-half tonnes, has become something

of a celebrity in Derby.

He receives visits from admirers on a daily basis as well as

donation of fruit and vegetables from greengrocers D and M

Piggott, of Mackworth, Maskrey and Son, from Derby's Market

Hall, and Darley's restaurant.

Sergeant Darren Belfield, of Derbyshire police's wildlife

crime team, said: “We take criminal acts against wildlife,

domestic or farm animals very seriously.

“I would appeal to anyone who has information regarding what

I would describe as cowardly attacks on this water buffalo to

come forward and call police on 0845 123 3333.”

Anyone who witnesses anyone hurting Oink can also call Mrs

Moore on 07518 785178.