THE RSPCA is urging anyone with information on the mysterious death of hedgehogs in Hatherleigh to contact them.

Hatherleigh resident Elizabeth Record has found three dead hedgehogs in the large car park used by visitors to Hatherleigh Market since January.

Each one was killed with a shot from a BB gun.

Elizabeth said: 'It's so sad to find these animals, which cause no bother to anyone, shot at.

'It's so needless, and I find this kind of thing quite distressing.

'The car park is quite secluded and not well lit at night. It's just so pointless.

'Hedgehogs are on the decline, and this seems so sad.

'Hopefully someone may know something and come forward to prevent such a stupid act.'

Elizabeth contacted the police about the issue, and they told her to call the RSPCA.

In response to this, the animal charity is now urging anyone with information on who may have shot the hedgehogs to call the RSPCA cruelty and information hotline on 0300 1234 999.