The fallow buck was found shot dead in woods near Burntollet Bridge yesterday morning.

Police say the animal died a very cruel death after being shot illegally with a low calibre rifle or shotgun.

Inspector Michael Winters told the 'Journal' that the deer "clearly died in a lot of pain".

"The most disturbing thing about the death is that the animal was shot with a gun which is not legal for shooting deer. It appears the low calibre shot did not kill the animal and it thrashed around on the ground for quite a time. It was obviously a slow, painful death and a case of severe cruelty to animals."

Insp Winters said he suspected that the deer was shot at night by lampers.

He added that forensic evidence would be examined in the hope of tracking down those responsible.

Insp Winters called on anyone who saw hunters in the area to contact police.

"People should not hesitate to call us if they have seen sporting shooters in the area, even cars because any legitimate hunters will have no problem in being questioned by police.

"People out shooting in the middle of the night are often involved in other crimes in rural areas and it's in the best interests of the rural community to report them to police."