THE RSPCA has raised concerns after a kitten with neck injuries was found dead in a sandbag in woodland - in what has been described as a "disturbing" case.

It is the fourth time a dead cat is reported to have been found in suspicious circumstances at Black Carr Woods in Pudsey.

The latest incident, which has been reported to the RSPCA, involved a female tortoiseshell kitten who was found by a dog walker on a path near the Ned Lane entrance on January 30.

The kitten, who is thought to have been around four-months-old, had been placed in a reusable Christmas bag from The Works and then left in a white sandbag.

She was taken by the finder to the PDSA in Bradford, where wounds on both sides of her neck and signs of trauma in her mouth were noted.

The same dog walker is also said to have found two dead adult cats in the same location last summer and one in October.

One of them, who was also taken to the PDSA, had a wound to the midriff area.

RSPCA animal rescue officer Hannah Williams said: "It appears that someone is deliberately going out of their way to go to this area, walk along a quiet footpath and then cruelly discard their unwanted pets and we don't know if they are alive at the time or already dead - but is obviously disturbing.

"We're extremely concerned about how this little kitten may have sustained her injuries, as well as the welfare of her mum, possible siblings and other cats that may also belong to the person or people who are doing this. 

"The fact it's happened before at this location leads us to believe the incidents may be linked, but we need people with first-hand information to help us.

"Does anyone recognise the bags, has anyone seen suspicious activity in the area or does anyone have first-hand information that could help us?

"If so, please get in touch as a matter of urgency."

People with information which could help the RSPCA's investigation can call 0300 123 8018, quoting incident number 01216628.

This year the RSPCA celebrates its 200th birthday. To mark the anniversary, the animal welfare charity wants to inspire one million people to join its movement to improve animals' lives. To find out how you can join, visit www.rspca.org.uk/200