The family of a pensioner shot with a crossbow and now fighting for his life say they cannot think of anybody who would want to harm him.

Gerald Corrigan, 74, was adjusting a satellite dish outside his secluded home on the outskirts of Holyhead, North Wales, when he was struck just before 12.35am on Friday.

Mr Corrigan staggered inside the house before an ambulance was called and was taken to hospital in Bangor, where his condition was described as critical.

He has since been transferred to a hospital in Stoke because his injuries are so serious and have been described as “life-threatening”.

Police believe Mr Corrigan may have been accidentally shot by a lamper – rogue night-time hunters who use bright lights to target animals – but they are not ruling out other lines of inquiry.

His family said in a statement issued through North Wales Police: “This is a horrific incident that has happened to our family.

“We cannot think of anybody who may have wanted to hurt our father and dear partner. We are trying to come to terms with this shocking incident.

“If anybody has any information at all about what has happened, however small, please come forward to the police.

“We would like to pay tribute to the ambulance service and medical staff for the incredible work they have done.

“We remain hopeful and request privacy at this difficult time.”

Police have appealed for information about the “highly unusual” incident, which happened near the junction of Porthdafarch Road and Plas Road.

Anybody who may have been in the vicinity of nearby South Stack Road between 6pm on Thursday and 4am on Friday should contact police.

Detectives also asked neighbours in the area who may have private CCTV to come forward, as well as anyone who travelled on nearby South Stack Road and has dash-cam footage.

Police said they are also keen to hear from anyone involved in either lamping, hunting and game or pest control in the South Stack area of Holyhead.

Locals say lampers have been operating in the area recently.

:: Anybody with information should contact North Wales Police on 101

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