THE DOCTOR who was fined £4,000 for shooting and killing a pet cat in Bridport has left the Somerset medical centre he joined as a probationary partner after the incident.

Robert Boulton was not offered a permanent position with the Essex House Medical Centre in Chard after his probationary period came to an end.

Dr Boulton was convicted at Dorchester Crown Court last November of possessing a firearm while committing criminal damage.

The court heard that Dr Boulton killed the cat, called Bob, after believing it was responsible for digging up his garden at his home in Skilling.

Fining him, Judge John Beashel described the GP's actions as "callous, reckless and stupid".

After the court case the medical centre confirmed that Dr Boulton had been made a provisional offer of a partnership before the shooting.

A statement released by the medical centre said: "Dr Robert Boulton is no longer a member of the practice team at Essex House Medical Centre, Chard.

"A permanent position with the practice was subject to a probationary period and assessment to his and the practice's satisfaction. The probationary period with the practice came to an end on March 31, 2002 and he was not offered a permanent position.

"This decision remains a private contractual matter between the practice and Dr Boulton and consequently no further comment can be made."

After his conviction, Dr Boulton said he was "profoundly sorry" for what had happened and that he had done something "very stupid and wrong. My work is not just a job, it's a vocation. Now all I want is to build up a good relationship with my patients and do them proud."