A CAT was shot dead in the street with a pellet gun.

Thames Valley Police is now appealing for help to find the culprit of what officers are calling a case of 'criminal damage.'

The incident happened around the Portal Drive area of Upper Heyford on Saturday.

Police said they received reports a cat had been shot with a pellet gun between 9am and 10am.

The animal died from its injuries.

PCSO Louise Beaumont, based in Bicester, said: "The offence is criminal damage and we are asking that anyone who has any information regarding this offence makes contact via 101 ref 43190277047."