STAFF at an East Huntspill wildlife centre are warning people about the dangers of air guns after a pigeon sadly fell victim to one on Remembrance Day.

Carers at Secret World Wildlife Rescue were left shocked and angry after they were forced to put down a pigeon which had been shot with an air gun in Weston-super-Mare.

Sarah Tingvoll, section leader at Secret World, removed a metal pellet from the bird’s wing when it arrived at the centre but took the tough decision to put the it to sleep to prevent any further suffering..

Afterwards she said: “We know most gun owners use their guns in a responsible way, but this horrific case should serve as a permanent reminder that the consequences of using a pellet or air gun irresponsibly can be deadly.

“The fact that this bird fell victim to a gun shot on Remembrance Day makes this even more heartbreaking and poignant.

“Carrier pigeons played a pivotal role in both world wars and their role is often overlooked.”