Hundreds of campaigners are raising awareness to try to save a fox they have befriended from harm.

Park Wood residents have embraced the animal, named Sam, for a number of years, with homeowners leaving out raw chicken wings in the winter and lollies in the summer for him to feast on.

However, concern for the welfare of the estate’s “pet” has escalated in recent days after it was claimed a neighbouring school had set a trap to try and catch him.

Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, it is illegal to trap foxes using self-locking snares, bows and crossbows, explosives other than legal ammunition for a licensed firearm, or live birds or animals as bait or live decoys.

Some cage traps and snares can be used to catch foxes, though they should be checked at least once a day to prevent a captured fox suffering, guidance states.

Furthermore, captured foxes shouldn’t be relocated or released as it will cause foxes stress by transporting and relocating them to an unfamiliar environment.

Mimi Jenkins, 17, is one of the locals leading the campaign.

She said: “Sam is the friendliest fox you’ll ever meet, everyone knows him and feeds him so people are very angry.”

Mimi has been assisted in the campaign by her sister, Shanice Reade , 25, who this week launched a petition which has already received more than 550 signatures.

"Sam is the friendliest fox you’ll ever meet, everyone knows him and feeds him so people are very angry" - Mimi Jenkins

The mum-of-one said: “We see Sam every day, he comes to get fed in the morning and evening and everyone loves him.”

The Holy Family Catholic Primary School on Bicknor Road declined to answer questions on the nature of the trap set but a spokesman said in a statement: “Holy Family’s first concern is the safety of the children.

“Our action in relation to local wildlife is always based on professional advice and guidance. Whilst we are aware of some local sensitivities in this instance the welfare of our children must remain paramount.”