'Despicable' crossbow attack on calves prompts public appeal

Two calves have been shot with what is believed to be a crossbow prompting a public appeal for information.

The animals were discovered off Burnthurst Lane by the village of Princethorpe, near Coventry, on Sunday, Warwickshire Police confirmed.

A one-month old calf had to be put to sleep at the scene while a four-month old animal, shot in its hindquarters, is expected to survive.

It is thought the incident happened between 7pm on Saturday June 22, and 10am the following day.

Carol Cotterill, of Warwickshire Police, branded it as a "despicable attack".

Appealing for witnesses, she added: "We are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who was in the area over the weekend and saw anything suspicious."

• Anyone with information should contact Warwickshire Police on 101 quoting incident 128 of 23 June 2019 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.