A shopper has been branded "disgraceful" for leaving two young children in a car during hot weather.

The youngsters were spotted earlier today in the parent and toddler area of Asda car park in Sturry Road by Kayleigh Marie Brown.

Their parents were "nowhere to be seen".

In a post on Facebook, Ms Brown said: "I waited five minutes or so before reporting it, and getting the number plate called over the Tannoy."

But the owner of the vehicle did not contact reception as requested, and the car soon "disappeared".

"You should be ashamed of yourselves leaving two children in a car in this heat for god knows how long," continued Ms Brown.

"The windows were open in the back but it’s still far too hot. Everyone moans about leaving dogs in the car – I agree, but kids should be treated the same."

One of the children is thought to be about six years old, while the other is thought to be under the age of 10.

Ms Brown's Facebook post sparked mass outrage, with many calling it "disgraceful" and "absolutely disgusting" to leave children inside a car during hot weather.

"No way in hell do you leave kids in a parked car," said Philippa Chandler. "I would have called police in this heat."

Trish Stygle added: "It doesn`t matter what age children are, you do not leave them in the car in these temperatures. The temperature inside of a car rises far more than outside."

Others, however, thought the incident did not merit such a reaction.

"Why is everyone judging?" commented Charlie Ford. "They may have wanted to stay in the car. I sat in my car while cleaning the inside for an hour or two in the sunlight, and it really wasn't unbearably hot. Why is everyone trying to become vigilantes these days?"

Police have been approached for a comment.