The RSPCA is appealing for information after a cat and her five kittens were abandoned in a local lay-by.

RSPCA Animal Rescue Officer Charlotte Holder is asking anyone with information on where they came from or who left them alone beside the busy road to get in touch.

She said: "All the cats were very friendly which suggests they were someone's pets. Sadly they were all underweight and dehydrated and mum had fur loss on her back end.

They were discovered beside a flytipped sofa (image via RSPCA)

"None had microchips. They are now getting the care they need at a rescue centre.

"It's never the right thing to do to abandon an animal like this, there is plenty of help and advice out there for struggling pet owners, such as on the RSPCA's website."

Anyone with information should contact the RSPCA's appeals line on 0300 123 8018, quoting reference 01513888.