Plea after gull shot with crossbow in Rhyl

The gull was rearing two young birds

A seagull has been shot with a crossbow in Rhyl, Denbighshire and the RSPCA has launched an appeal for information.

The bird was first seen with a bolt through its body on Monday and was rescued by RSPCA officers after four days of trying.

The gull is now receiving treatment at a veterinary surgery in Rhyl.

RSPCA inspector Fred Armstrong said the incident was "highly disturbing". "It's absolutely vital that somebody helps us catch this person," he said.

Mr Armstrong said: "Committing an act of cruelty against a defenceless animal is unpardonable.

"It's also very worrying that there's someone out there with a crossbow who's using it at will."

He added: "It's absolutely vital that somebody helps us catch this person."

The bird was first seen above a shop in Wellington Street in the town, along with two juvenile gulls. RSPCA officers visited the shop several times in an attempt to rescue the bird