AN Atherton cat lover is warning owners to be on their guard after his pet was shot dead at close range.

Colin Meakin, of Powys Street, Hindsford, said his family was devastated by the loss of their six-year-old ginger tom, Tigger, who had to be put down as a result of his injuries.

Colin said: "My 10-years-old daughter, Devon, five-years-old son, Josh, my wife Rowena and I are all heartbroken.

"People who I have never spoken to before have been to the house and spoke of their horror. We have informed the police and the Cats Protection League, who tell us that this is the third incident in this area although Tigger is the only one who has been tragically killed.

"We found him crying on the doorstep and when we let him in he limped upstairs under my daughter's bed. When we pulled him out we found he had an air rifle wound and took him to the vet where he had to be put to sleep."

He added: "I feel that it is important for all cat owners in the area to be aware of what has happened so they can be extra vigilant with their own animals.

"I know people will say Tigger was only a cat, but he left his mark on many of us."