GOBSMACKED residents are 'appalled' that police have closed the investigation into alleged cat poisonings in Malvern.

And the mayor of Malvern, Cllr Marilyn Birks, said it was time to 'step things up' as it was 'really frustrating' people didn't have a resolution about what had happened to their cats.

Lucy Symmonds has claimed cats have been poisoned in and around Ramsons Close for over a decade, including her own pets, Dusty, Dora and Douglas, all of whom had to be put to sleep.

But while police said they understood people were incredibly concerned about suspicions cats have been poisoned, they had found no evidence of cat poisonings and have closed the investigation. 

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Insp Dave Wise added police were aware of associated anti-social behaviour and harassment which had been addressed by the local Safer Neighbourhood team.

He added: “We have carried out a number of enquiries, including speaking with the local community and community leaders, viewing CCTV and considering possible forensic opportunities.

“Our enquiries did not find any evidence of cat poisonings and while we understand how loved and treasured family cats are, it is, of course, important our enquiries are proportionate, and the investigation has now closed.

“We would encourage those who continue to be concerned about the welfare of animals to contact the RSPCA as the most appropriate agency to manage this. Police will support them where necessary.”

Miss Symmonds said was 'gobsmacked and appalled' by the police's decision, she couldn't believe the police felt there was not enough evidence.

She added: "It is appalling that people's cats are being murdered by somebody and they are not willing to investigate it properly."

Cllr Birks, a cat lover herself, told the Gazette: "It really is frustrating that Lucy wants to get some sort of resolution as to what happened to her cat. 

"I have spoken with a number of organisations as to how to move things on and have shared the information with Lucy. 

"It’s probably time to step things up a bit.

"It seems clear to me that the police have thoroughly investigated."

An RSPCA spokesperson said: "We’d be happy to speak with the mayor about what’s involved in our investigations and explain why it can be incredibly difficult to get the evidence needed to proceed.

"We’re always really sorry to hear about the death of any animal, and always do everything we can to try and find out what has happened, and, when needed, prosecute those responsible.

"In cases like this, evidence such as CCTV and the retention of the body of an animal for post-mortem are required, without these we really struggle to be able to establish exactly what has happened and who is responsible."