Dead deer discovered in East Preston

The animal was found earlier this morning.

Simon Cross, clerk to East Preston Parish Council, said he informed Arun District Council about the gruesome discovery at about 8.30am.

He said: “The person who reported it to me thinks it was shot in the back of the head, and if you look closely you can see something red at the back of the head.

“I don’t think it looks swollen so if it had been in the water, it hadn’t been there for long.

“I also don’t think it looks as if it was shot in situ. Part of me wonders whether it was left on the beach in the hope it would wash out to sea, but I have no grounds to base that upon. Quiet stretch of beach overnight, but not easy to get a deer to.”

The RSPCA is now urging people with any information to contact the charity.

A spokeswoman said: “We are very sad to hear about this poor deer and urge anyone with any information to contact us on 0300 1234 999.”