AN investigation continues into the death of three cats, whose burned bodies were found by the side of a public footpath in Kibblesworth, Gateshead.

The cats appear to have been inside a cardboard box, which had also been burned.

They were discovered by someone walking down the popular lane, known locally as ‘The Lines’. The walker called the RSPCA.

RSPCA inspector Rachael Hurst said: “One of the cats was microchipped, but the telephone number listed does not work and the house that it is registered to is derelict and has been for a number of years.

“The microchipped cat’s name was ‘Poppy’ and she was four years old.

“If this means anything to anyone, or if anyone has any information that they think might help me to find out what happened here, please get in touch.”

The bodies were found at around 2pm on Saturday, January 28.

The RSPCA is investigating the incident and anyone who can help is asked to call the RSPCA inspector appeal line on 0300-123-8018 and leave a message for inspector Hurst.