POLICE have received reports that two cats are suspected to have died as a result of ingesting poison in Hexham’s East End.

The animals, one a stray black cat with no microchip and the other a family pet, were taken to Hadrian Vets in September. Officers have also received reports from local residents and partner agencies, including the county council and Isos, about cats living wild in the area.

Members of the local neighbourhood policing team said they were working alongside local authority, housing and charitable agencies, including the RSPCA, to tackle the issue.

Neighbourhood Sgt Mick Quinn said: “The use of any form of uncontrolled poison presents a risk not just to wild animals, but also domesticated and protected species, as well as the wider community.

“I would urge anyone who has concerns about animals in the local community to contact the RSPCA who can deal with the issue in a safe and humane way.

“Anyone found using poison on animals may be committing a criminal offence.”

A county council spokesman said: “We are aware of an issue with a large number of stray cats in the area. We’ve been working closely with other organisations to try and discourage local residents from feeding the stray cats, as well as looking into whether any legislation can be used to help tackle the problem.”