RSPCA Cymru say they expect the number of airgun attacks on animals to be the higher in 2017 than in each of the previous two years.

There have already been seven reported incidents in the Vale this year - the same as in the last two years combined.

Up to the end of June, 41 incidents across Wales were reported to the charity. That compares to 58 throughout 2016, and 61 in 2015.

The new statistics are published ahead of a notoriously busy period for RSPCA Cymru officers in investigating such deliberate and cruel attacks.

Calls have been made for stricter regulations around the use of airguns. Legislation was recently introduced in Scotland, meaning anyone with an airgun must have a licence.

In February, Rusty the cat - from Barry - died after being shot by an air rifle. An x-ray scan revealed a pellet in the cat’s back.

RSPCA superintendent Martyn Hubbard said: "Reports of airgun attacks are so depressing - and domestic cats a frequent target with the repercussions often fatal.

"It's difficult to understand why anyone would carry out such mindless attacks on innocent, defenceless creatures.

"RSPCA backs calls for stricter regulations around owning an airgun. This, along with better education and basic safety training for owners, will help protect the nation’s animals from these horrible attacks.”