A porpoise was spotted in Gravesend canal basin. Picture: Aisha Newcombe

by Thom Morris

Yobs have thrown stones at a harbour porpoise that swam into the canal basin at Gravesend, it has been claimed.

They are said to have pelted the animal last night as it awaited the opening of the gates.

The stone throwing has now been reported to the Kent Police wildlife crimes unit.

Onlookers gathered as the harbour porpoise was spotted in the canal basin yesterday afternoon.

The mammal swam through the open gate but refused to leave.

Attempts to move the creature back out failed until 5am today when it was high tide again.