A Hitchin lady sitting in her garden had the shock of her life last night when a pigeon was seemingly shot off her roof.

The incident occurred at about 7.30pm yesterday. The woman – who lives in Mulberry Way – heard a popping sound, then saw a pigeon roll off the top of her house and onto the ground.

A police spokeswoman said the pigeon appeared to have been shot with an air rifle. The pigeon was not immediately killed, but died shortly afterwards.

Officers are investigating and have carried out a search of the area. They are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information to come forward.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting crime reference G1/16/1765, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.