YOUTH Court magistrates were urged to put aside emotional reactions when they considered the case of a boy accused of killing a swan and injuring another bird.

The 15-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has admitted one charge of intentionally killing a wild bird, a second of injuring its mate and a third of having a loaded air rifle in Lawn Woods without lawful authority.

The youth had appeared in the Magistrates' Court the previous day where he was charged jointly with an adult. They both admitted the offences.

Mike Wiggins, for the boy, said the weapon had belonged to the other defendant, who had pulled the trigger.

But he accepted his involvement was considerable.

"Sometimes it is difficult to reconcile that often public opinion seemed to be more stirred by the death of a bird than it does by human life.

"There is a substantial difference. This is serious and he has done something unforgivable, but we are talking about birds," added Mr Wiggins.

The youth, who has previous convictions for criminal damage, burglary, theft, failing to surrender and motoring offences, was remanded on conditional bail until November 26 for reports to be completed.

The other defendant, Damien Penrose, 18, of Bath Road, pleaded guilty on Tuesday to the same two charges. His case was adjourned for sentencing on December 4.