The RSPCA is appealing for information after a body of a dog was found in a shallow grave in a Brimstage field. 

Found by a member of the public the terrier-type dog was discovered last Thursday in the field just off Brimstage Lane.

The body was wrapped in a blood-stained beige blanket which had black paws printed on it.

RSPCA inspector Naomi Norris said: “Someone had attempted to dig a hole for this dog but it was very shallow.

“At this stage we don’t know how the dog died - it may be that the dog died naturally and someone has attempted to bury the body, however there are traces of blood on the blanket and this does concern us.

“The dog was not chipped so we have no way of knowing where he came from. Our only chance is if someone recognises the blanket and knows that the person whose blanket it is no longer has their dog."

Anyone who has information is urged to contact the RSPCA on 0300 123 8018.