A cat is in a critical condition after being shot.

Benji, who is seven years old, was shot with an air rifle between 7.30pm and 9pm on Thursday, July 21 in the High Road area of Leavesden.

Benji suffered injuries to his internal organs, which meant he needed emergency surgery and he is still at the vet.

PC Wendy Martin, who is investigating, said: “I’d like to reassure the local community that we believe that this was an isolated occurrence.

"The investigation is on-going and we are working hard to identify the person responsible for this cruel crime.”

Anyone with information can contact Hertfordshire Constabulary via the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference C4/16/1797.