The RSPCA is appealing for information after the bodies of four dead puppies were found dumped in Congleton Park.

The horrific find was made by a group of teenagers on Sunday in the park, near Worrall Street, Congleton, who alerted their parents.

One of the parents called Cheshire Police who removed the bodies. The RSPCA are now investigating the incident.

Inspector Caren Goodman-James is now appealing for anyone with information about who dumped the puppies or who they were owned by to get in touch.

Three were believed to be seven-week old Pomeranian-types and another appeared to be a Spaniel, so it is thought they could be from two different litters or one was a cross-breed.

Caren said: "The puppies were taken to a vet for examination and were found to have no microchips.

"The cause of death is not known at this stage but they all appeared to be in poor health and covered in pieces of sawdust.

"Four bodies dumped in this way obviously raise suspicions that the puppies have died from an illness and may have come from an unscrupulous breeder.

"I am hoping someone will know who these puppies belonged to and can provide me with that information.

"Someone may have been to view a litter of puppies and may have seen them.

"I am also keen to hear from anyone who may have seen something suspicious in this area at the weekend when I believed the bodies were dumped.

"I would urge anyone with information to call the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018."

The RSPCA has seen a surge in interest for people adopting or buying puppies during lockdown but this increased demand may be inadvertently fuelling the puppy trade with unscrupulous and unlicensed breeders profiting from their illegal trade.

The animal welfare charity would always advise people to Adopt don't Shop.