A cowardly animal abuser who physically abused a pet cat in Weymouth refused to turn up to his court hearing this week.

Harry Taberner, 30, of Stamford Avenue, Altrincham, Manchester, caused unnecessary suffering to a tabby called Tallulah on January 11, 2021.

Taberner was due to appear at Weymouth Magistrates' Court on Thursday, May 25 regarding the sickening offence - but did not show up.

A warrant for his arrest has been issued and he will be sentenced on a date yet to be confirmed.

Taberner carried out the abuse more than two years ago in Chickerell by causing unnecessary suffering to the white female cat.

He inflicted cruel physical abuse on the animal, contrary to the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

His offences were proved in his absence at the Weymouth Magistrates' Court hearing this week, where the prosecution presented the facts and the magistrate found Taberner guilty.

The case was originally being dealt with at Wirral Magistrates' Court before being moved down to Weymouth.

If Taberner is picked up by the police in Dorset, he will be taken to Poole Magistrates' Court where plans for his sentencing will be decided.