A DOG'S charred remains has been found on a burned pile of fly-tipped rubbish in Middlesbrough.

The RSPCA was called by a member of the public who made the upsetting discovery on Tuesday, October 6.

RSPCA inspector Ruth Thomas-Coxon was called to the dumped rubbish on a patch of land off Bevanlee Road, Middlesbrough.

She said: “The dog appears to be medium to large-sized, black and tan. Unfortunately, due to the fire damage to the body, it’s difficult to determine much more about the dog and that’s why we’re appealing to the public for any information that may help us establish where this poor dog has come from and whether he or she has died in suspicious circumstances.

“What isn’t clear at this time is whether the dog was alive or already dead when set on fire so it’s obviously incredibly important to establish this and whether this dog suffered at the hands of someone.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact the RSPCA’s appeal line on 0300 123 8018.

To help the RSPCA continue to rescuing animals and investigating animal cruelty, please donate whatever you can spare at www.rspca.org.uk/covid.