ANIMAL-LOVERS have spoken of their horror after a badger sett was torched by firebugs.

The destroyed sett was discovered in the Halstead area by a volunteer from the North East Essex Badger Group after the fire had gone out.

The group said it appeared hay bales had deliberately been put over the badgers’ underground home and set on fire, giving the animals inside no chance of escaping the inferno.

It is unclear how many badgers were killed in the attack.

North East Essex Badger Group chairman Renee Hockley-Byam said she was left “heartbroken” by the incident.

She said: “It’s horrifying that a whole clan of badgers with their young have been wiped out – it’s really upsetting.

“I can’t imagine the motivation to do that – to dislike badgers so much.”

The volunteer had permission to visit the land regularly to check the sett.

This is the first time she had come across any incidents there.

Renee added: “It’s horrifying. We’ve seen lots of horrible things over the years but it is still so upsetting and it’s such an important time for badger families underground.

“To see a whole set destroyed is heartbreaking but that’s what we’re up against.

“We’re terrified of sending someone out to something in case it’s this nasty.”

“Badgers are protected and it is against the law to damage a sett as well as harm badgers.”

The incident has been reported to Essex Police, which has launched an investigation.

A police spokesman said: “Inquiries are ongoing.”

Anyone who sees any badgers in danger is urged to contact the North East Essex Badger Group hotline on 07751 572175.