RSPCA search for man who struck deer with hammer in Wareham

A vet examination showed the deer was "unlikely" to have died from the first blow

The RSPCA is searching for a man who struck an injured deer on the head with a hammer.

An X-ray image of the animal's skull has just been released by the charity, after witnesses reported the incident in Wareham, Dorset.

The RSPCA said an examination had shown that the deer was "unlikely" to have died instantly from the first blow.

It happened at about 21:00 BST on 28 November, but details have only been released.

'The deer man'

RSPCA inspector Jo Story said: "I have made enquiries with vets and the police and I'm really keen to speak to this person about using a hammer in this way.

"We have no idea who the man was but he described himself as 'the deer man' to members of the public in the area, and was driving a white large van, which had a logo on the back door with writing.

"He also had two brown dogs with him, including a spaniel type. He was white and in his 20s or 30s."

She appealed for anyone with information to contact the RSPCA on 0300 123 8018.

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