An animal welfare group has put up a £100 reward to help catch snipers who shot a cat in the jaw with an airgun.

Members of the voluntary-run Animal Rescue centre, in Rayleigh, are hoping the cash incentive will lead to the arrest and conviction of the thugs.

Distraught Betty Steward found her injured cat Kitty with blood pouring from her face after the attack in Little Wakering on Saturday.

The terrified animal is now back at home with her owner after undergoing surgery at a Leigh vets to remove a pellet from the jaw.

A spokeswoman for the group, which looks after injured and abandoned animals, said: "This was a cowardly attack which left a cat with terrible injuries. We are offering the £100 reward which will hopefully encourage anyone with information to contact the police."

Rayleigh police are still investigating the shooting and anyone with information should contact them on 01268 775533.

Published Friday, June 6, 2003

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