MICHAEL LANCASTER'S HORRIFIC SEAGULL KILLING IN FLEETWOOD - LIFETIME BAN AND COMMUNITY ORDER

Michael Lancaster, a resident of Warrenhurst Court on Warrenhurst Road in Fleetwood, became the subject of a serious criminal case after a brutal attack on a protected seagull. Born on August 13, 1973, Lancaster’s actions in 2020 shocked the local community and led to significant legal consequences.

According to court reports, Lancaster, who was employed at a McDonald's restaurant at the time, was already under a lifetime ban from keeping animals due to previous convictions. His anger was reportedly triggered by the seagull’s persistent visits to the bin yard area near his residence, where the bird would swoop down daily, presumably scavenging for food.

On the day of the incident, Lancaster’s frustration boiled over. Witnesses and court officials described how he physically assaulted the bird in a particularly cruel manner. Paul Ridehalgh, representing the RSPCA, detailed that Lancaster kicked the seagull, which is a protected species, causing injury to its wing. The attack did not stop there; Lancaster then placed the injured bird into a bin and proceeded to spray it with a pressure washer, a device typically used for cleaning, but here used as a weapon. The court heard that he also poked the distressed bird with a spiked stick, further inflicting suffering.

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that a waitress, who heard the seagull crying out in pain and distress, attempted to intervene. Despite her efforts, Lancaster continued his assault, expressing his frustration about the bird’s daily visits to the yard. The waitress then called the RSPCA, but tragically, the seagull succumbed to its injuries before help could arrive.

In an interview with an RSPCA officer, Lancaster admitted to the killing, stating, “I killed the seagull. It was my fault.” He also revealed that he had lost his job at McDonald's as a direct result of his actions. His behavior was characterized by the prosecution as a serious offense involving deliberate violence against a protected animal.

The magistrates’ court sentenced Lancaster to a two-year community order, which includes 45 days of rehabilitation activities. Additionally, he was given a four-month curfew and ordered to pay £290 in costs. Most notably, Lancaster received a lifetime ban on keeping or caring for any animals, a measure intended to prevent future incidents of cruelty.

This case has drawn significant attention in Fleetwood, highlighting issues of animal cruelty and the importance of enforcing laws protecting wildlife. The court’s decision underscores the seriousness with which such offenses are regarded and serves as a reminder of the consequences of violent acts against animals.