CATS are being killed and seriously injured by youths shooting them with airguns. In the last month, three cats in one street on the Bournville estate in Weston have been shot. One had to be put down because of its internal injuries. Knightstone Housing a

CATS are being killed and seriously injured by youths shooting them with airguns.In the last month, three cats in one street on the Bournville estate in Weston have been shot. One had to be put down because of its internal injuries.Knightstone Housing and the area's residents' association are posting letters through people's doors to try to find out where the gunman lives.Marilyn Noszkay, of Brue Close, was devastated when her 14-year-old cat Timmy had to be put down because of the abdominal damage it suffered after being hit by a pellet.Marilyn went to Weston Police Station, but officers said they could not do anything unless she knew who was responsible.She said: "Seeing Timmy gasping for breath was just devastating as he was obviously in a lot of pain."The attack was horrific and I'm terrified when my other two cats now go out. "I couldn't believe it when the police said they couldn't do anything. I was really upset." North Somerset councillor Ian Parker said: "I am appalled at the police response. I would expect the police to take the matter seriously and at least carry out some investigations in an attempt to find the person responsible. "Clearly the culprit takes pleasure in shooting animals but will it stop there or might they one day turn their attention to people?"RSPCA inspector John Norman said: "We've been told about other attacks happening in the area this year."The problem we've got is that it's very difficult to find out who is doing it. If animals are being injured then it could only be a matter of time before a person is hurt."If we get evidence then it would be classed as an act of cruelty which carries a maximum fine of £5,000."Police officers are carrying out an investigation after two cars were shot at in nearby Wyvern Road.Spokesman Sgt Gareth Starr said: "We will be stepping up patrols in the area and stop and search youths who look like they could be carrying weapons. This sort of crime will not be tolerated.