Decomposed bodies of 10 animals - including three dogs still in their beds - have been found sealed in boxes in a secluded country lane

The grisly scene was reported to police by a member of the public who came across the distressing remains in Chalket Lane, Pembury.

When the RSPCA arrived they found five bin bags containing various sealed boxes all of different sizes.

Inside, already in an advanced stage of decomposition, were the bodies of three small brown terrier-type dogs - with dog beds - as well as four guinea pigs, one rabbit, one mouse and one cockatiel-like bird.

Following the sad discovery on the evening of June 23 all the animals were scanned for microchips but none were found.

RSPCA inspector Laura Bryant said: "I am investigating this sad incident and would appeal to anyone who may know who owns these animals or the circumstances in which they came to be in this situation.

"The bodies of the animals were too decomposed and therefore it is not known what the cause of deaths may have been or if they had died prior to being put into the containers.

"However this is a large number of animals and of different species to have died at the same time which does make it suspicious. The fact that the dogs were also found in dog beds is also concerning.

"I am appealing for information - someone somewhere may know what has happened to these animals or knows someone who owned them and now for some reason no longer has them."

Anyone with information is asked to contact the RSPCA inspector appeal line in confidence on 0300 123 8018

Read more: All the latest news from Tunbridge Wells