A POLICE probe has been launched after a protester claims they were assaulted while trying to stop "the destruction of skylark nests." 

Save the Wick fear nests were destroyed when cutting was carried out this month at Middlewick Ranges, despite skylark nests, chicks and fledglings being protected by law.

In a video, which has been posted online, a protestor is seen quizzing workers cutting grass at the site. 

In a self-shot video, the pair can be seen arguing over the legality of the cutting of the grass.

One man, who identified himself as security for the area, was shown running after the other man before the pair grappled.

One man can be heard shouting “that was just like Just Stop Oil.”

The protestor is then told “you’re trespassing now” before the video shows someone falling to the ground.

Skylark nests and chicks are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

Campaigners - Save the Wick campaigners Campaigners - Save the Wick campaigners (Image: Save the Wick)

Essex Police said it was investigating the incident, which happened earlier this month. 

The spokesman said: “We were called to reports of an assault at Middlewick Ranges in Abbot’s Road on July 1.

“A man sustained an injury to his arm in the incident.

“Our investigation is ongoing.”

A spokesman for contractors Landmarc said: “We are aware of a video on social media showing an altercation involving one of our employees.

“We are taking this matter very seriously and conducting a thorough investigation to understand the facts."

The spokesman added: “All RSPB advice about protecting skylark nests is followed at all times”.

“The guidance recognises that hay meadows need to be periodically mown to sustain them, but to avoid harming ground nesting birds, mowing should be delayed until after the end of May. In the incident you are referring to, mowing was delayed by the tenant until July."

A spokesman for the ministry of Defence said: “We are aware of an edited video showing an incident on Middlewick Ranges.

“Our contractor is investigating”.

The Ministry of Defence said the grass must be mowed to reduce the risk of wildfires and the threat this presents to neighbouring properties and their occupants.