The dead body of a pregnant horse, with its half-born foal emerging from it, has been dumped in a country lane, near Ashford.

The adult mare had a rope tied around her back legs and the RSPCA believes the animal died giving birth.

The foal's head and hooves could be seen as if it was about to be born.

The grim discovery was made by a passerby in Barnfield Road, Charing Heath, on Sunday.

RSPCA inspector Rosie Russon said: “This was one of the most upsetting things I have ever seen.

“The horse clearly died in the middle of giving birth, before being dragged by her feet so she could be dumped in the country lane.

"The horse and her foal must have suffered a horrible and painful death. It's so sad," - RSPCA inspector Rosie Russon

“She clearly needed veterinary attention and help giving birth and she - and her foal - must have suffered a horrible and painful death. It is so sad.

“Unfortunately we are seeing more and more heartbreaking incidents involving horses like this.

“England and Wales are in the grip of a horse crisis and a high proportion of these cases are happening here, in Kent.

“We and other welfare charities are struggling to cope with the number of neglected and abused horses and ponies we are seeing and sadly there are thousands more which are feared to be at risk.”

In March the RSPCA launched an urgent Homes for Horses rehoming campaign as the number of equines in the charity’s care exceeded 600.

Anyone with any information can call the RSPCA on 0300 123 8018.