AN RSPCA inspector has appealed for information about three youths thought to be involved with the death of a cat.

The black and white cat, called Luna, was attacked by three dogs in Eden Close, in Hurworth, near Darlington, at about 8am this morning (Monday, April 29).

A woman living in the street went to investigate after she heard a commotion and saw three boys, aged between 16 and 18, standing over the cat with three dogs.

The boys ran away with the dogs, which were not wearing collars or leads, when they saw the woman.

Luna died a short time later and a vet has confirmed that she suffered puncture wounds to her neck consistent with a dog attack.

RSPCA inspector John Lawson said the three youths had previously been seen around Hurworth with the dogs, thought to be a lurcher and two terriers, and air rifles.

He said: “As no-one witnessed the actual attack and we have no identification for the three youths, at the moment we would just like to know who they are.

“They’ve been seen around the village quite a lot recently. It’s a close knit community so we hope someone will know who they are.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Mr Lawson at the RSPCA on 0300-1234-999.