A CAT lover from Gargrave has been left heartbroken after her cat was found severely injured, possibly after a brutal attack.

Angela Underwood, of Neville Road, told the Herald that her 11-year-old cat Jasper had been found dead by a group of local boys.

Mrs Underwood said that had she known the extent of the injuries she would not have gone to look at Jasper, who lay covered in blood.

She said that she could not believe that Jasper had been involved in a road accident because his head was caved in which she claimed might suggest a deliberate attack.

Mrs Underwood said that she was very hurt and upset by the incident, particularly as a number of cats have been injured in and around Gargrave.

"I cannot imagine the mentality of somebody doing something so vicious to an animal," she said.

RSPCA spokesman Heather Holmes described the incident as "a particularly callous act of cruelty".

She said that if anyone knew anything about the incident they should contact the RSPCA in confidence on 08705 555 999.