THE RSPCA has tracked down the council-employed marksman who sparked outrage when he took pot shots at sheep he had herded into a Monmouthshire field.

Thirty two-year-old Adrian Walker, of Grosmont, runs Golden Valley Meat with his father. He was criticised by animal rights protesters after he was caught on video camera taking pot shots at sheep in an open field belonging to Abergavenny farmer Barrie Clayton. He had rounded up the animals into the field to be slaughtered after they were caught wandering on a nearby road.

The RSPCA immediately launched an inquiry following complaints from the public. Until recently they had failed to make contact with Mr Walker.

And the animal protection group say discussions have also begun with Monmouthshire council who were ordered to carry out their own inquiry by National Assembly rural affairs minister Carwyn Jones.

Monmouthshire county council's inquiry ruled out disciplinary action against Mr Walker who had not acted "irresponsibly or negligently".

While pledging to review the way strays are slaughtered, the council criticised farmer Mr Clayton for allowing his sheep to wander and hit out at the number of spectators who gathered to watch the shooting.

Confirming contact with Mr Walker had been made, RSPCA Superintendent Kevin Manning said he hoped a decision over any prosecution could be made "as soon as possible."

"We have not yet interviewed the marksman but lines of communication are now open and contact has been made. We have received correspondence from him through a legal representative he has instructed on his behalf."

He added: "Discussions have begun with the council. We won't let go of this investigation, don't worry about that. The discussions so far have been slow but you expect that in an investigation of this sort and we want to make sure we get it right."