The RSPCA is appealing for information after three wild rabbits were found shot by the side of a road.

A passer-by found the animals in MacDonald Parade in Seasalter at around 3pm yesterday.

Two were dead while the other was still alive but had to be put to sleep later.

The passer-by said they saw a small white van drive by, with someone leaning out to place something on the path.

RSPCA spokesman Katya Mira said: "The rabbits were taken straight to a vet who sadly said the injuries to the third rabbit were so severe that he had to be put to sleep to prevent further suffering.

"He had been shot in the head and must have been in such pain just left there to suffer with such bad injuries.

"If it had not been for the quick-thinking of this kind member of the public the rabbit would have stayed there suffering for longer.

"The vet said the way these rabbits had been shot was inhumane and illegal, and we urge anyone with any information to come forward and let us know on 0300 123 8018."