Cat killed in washer by burglars

Police in Coventry are hunting thieves who broke into a house and killed a pet cat by putting it into a washing machine, which they then switched on.

Police say the owners were distressed at the horrific death, which they called a callous act.

The incident happened after offenders forced their way into a house in Sewell Highway, Wyken, Coventry, on Saturday night or early on Sunday.

They left apparently empty-handed after killing the animal, police added.

A pet hamster was also let out of its cage before the burglars left.

Det Sgt Steve Francis of West Midlands Police said: "We are investigating the break-in and asking for anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area to contact us."