THE RSPCA has confirmed that a Buzzard which had been shot with an air rifle, found at the roadside in Tedburn St Mary, on Friday, January 20, had to be put to sleep.

The charity said the bird was in a "very thin condition" when found with the air gun pellet in its foot.

The bird was taken to the RSPCA’s West Hatch wildlife centre near Taunton where the shooting injury was confirmed from a post-mortem investigation after the bird had to be put to sleep because of his injuries.

The RSPCA is appealing for information.

Alan Quick