A COUPLE whose pet cat died after being violently thrown against their front door have appealed to the community to help catch those responsible.

Carmen and Adrian Dunbar, of Lister Road in Leytonstone, have been left deeply upset and mystified by the horrific death of their beloved 19-year-old moggie Oliver, who they have owned for around 14 years.

The pair were sitting watching television Friday before last (October 7) when they heard a loud thud at the door at around 9.20pm.

When Mr Dunbar went to investigate, he found the ginger tom cat lying on the doorstep with a broken back and other severe injuries.

The retired couple rushed Oliver to the vet but nothing could be done to save him.

Mrs Dunbar, 60, said: “It was horrendous. We took him straight to a vet but he had to be put to sleep. He was a much-loved cat in our neighbourhood and so friendly that he would go up to anyone."

Husband Adrian, 57, said: "This was such an appalling end for Oliver. It is beyond words how we feel about what happened.

“We've had him since he was four years old. He wasn't just our pet, he was part of the community here as well.

"We've never had any trouble here, it's a nice quiet street and we have no enemies. We just don't understand it.

“The people that did this are evil. It worries me that they could do this to another animal, or even act this way towards a human being. They clearly have no empathy.”

RSPCA Inspector Jas Matharu added: "This was a horrible, nasty crime - one of the worst things I have come across as an RSPCA inspector.”

Police are appealing for witnesses and information to catch those responsible.

Mr Dunbar saw two, possibly three, young women walking quickly away from the scene into some nearby flats but it is unknown if they were involved.

Police constable Lesley Beale from the Leytonstone Safer Neighbourhoods Team added: "This was a particularly cruel act, which even as a police officer left me appalled and disgusted.

"If anyone has information that can identify those responsible, please contact us and we shall ensure these offenders are brought to justice."

Those with information are urged to contact the Leytonstone Safer Neighbourhoods Team on 020 8721 2874.

To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or the RSPCA on 03001234999.

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