Residents of a Sheppey town are warning others to keep their pets safe after snares were set in a back garden in Minster-on-Sea.

It's believed the snares have been set in the garden of a property on Danedale Avenue, and are meant to catch foxes.

But pet-owners are concerned that cats or dogs could also get caught in the traps.

Swampy's Wildlife Rescue, based in Sheerness, has issued a warning to residents of Minster and Eastchurch on the organisation's Facebook page.

It reads: "Please be aware if you live in Minster and Eastchurch, somebody is setting snares to catch wildlife. I'm afraid this will put your pets in a very vulnerable position."

There are also many allegations on social media that the resident who is setting the snares is also parading the animals that have been trapped on gates outside his property.

A Kent Police spokesman confirmed they had received a report concerning images of a dead fox circulating on social media.

They added: "Officers are making inquiries to establish whether any offences have been committed."

A spokesman for the RSPCA said: "The RSPCA is aware of the death of a fox on the Isle of Sheppey and an officer is looking into it. Anyone with any information which could help our investigation should call 0300 123 8018."