A HEDGEHOG died after being set on fire by youths playing with lighter fluid.

Details of the horrific attack have been revealed following a story in last week's Cantrbury-based Kentish Gazette about another hedgehog which was hurled from a 12ft roof and kicked like a football on the city's Spring Lane estate.

The charred remains of the latest animal to suffer were left in Pine Tree Avenue, Canterbury.

A witness has told the RSPCA that he saw a commotion near to Green House Lane at 10pm on Saturday, September 16, and heard girls shouting “stop it”.

Lighter fuel was found near the burned hedgehog.

On Monday, September 18, another hedgehog was thrown off a 12ft high roof in Warwick Road on the Spring Lane Estate and then kicked like a football and later died.

The RSPCA is not linking the two attacks, but is not ruling out the possibility.

Insp Charlotte Eyden said: “It’s very shocking to discover that a second hedgehog has been attacked in such a mindless way in Canterbury.

“I find it unbelievable that youngsters find it fun to cause such pain and suffering to an animal and they are probably doing it to impress others.”

A name has been passed to the RSPCA of one of the youths said to have been involved, but more witnesses are needed if there is to be a prosecution.

Hedgehogs are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act and the maximum penalty for cruelty towards them is six months in prison.

Anyone with information about the Pine Tree Avenue or Spring Lane incidents is asked to call the RSPCA on 0870 5555999.