A MUCH-LOVED cat is recovering at home after she was shot in the eye with an air rifle.

Police are appealing for the public’s help following the incident last month.

Three-year-old Miriam went missing from her home in Eastgate in Weardale for three days but it is thought she was shot on October 23.

Her owner said she was doing well since her ordeal but has lost one eye. He is encouraging anyone with information to help police with their enquiries.

“She is back to her old self now and is enjoying going outside again,” he added.

“Whether this was done on purpose or by accident it is important we find out who was responsible.”

There have been reports of poaching in the area in recent months but it is not known if what happened to Miriam is connected to this. Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Geoff Moore via Durham Police’s non-emergency number 101. Please quote incident number DHM-31102017-0259.