Shot pet cat dies of gun injuries

Willow was described by her owners as a beautiful cat

A pet cat which had to have a leg amputated after being shot with an air rifle in Aberdeenshire has died from her injuries.

The family cat - called Willow - was attacked with the weapon in the Crook O'Ness area of Macduff early on Saturday afternoon.

Willow had to have surgery and lost one of her front legs.

Owner Alistair Minty told the BBC Scotland news website of Willow's death: "We are just stunned, numb."

He said Willow had been left screaming in pain after the attack on a "beautiful little cat".

Mr Minty added: "It's murder really, although it's a cat. We hope someone will come forward."