The RSPCA is appealing for information after the body of a dog was found in "suspicious circumstances" in a remote area near Chester.

On Wednesday 18 August at 9.30am, a dog walker discovered the body of a male black lurcher. The dog was found dumped on a verge along Moor Lane, Kinnerton.

It is believed that the lurcher would have been three in October.

RSPCA animal rescue officer Bethany Newis, who is investigating the case, said: "This was a very upsetting discovery for someone to make and we are concerned about how the dog's body came to be at this spot."

She explained that the dog was microchipped and traced to an owner in North Wales, who they said they re-homed the dog as a pup.

"We traced the next owner, also living in North Wales, who said they had rehomed the dog because it did not get on with another pet in the home," Bethany added. "We are now trying to trace the person who took on the dog after this."

She said suspicions had been raised by "the fact that his body appears to have been dumped", but explained due to the body's state of decomposition, an exact cause of death couldn't be confirmed.

The RSPCA is appealing for anyone with information as to who owned the dog to get in touch. The pet was wearing a black collar with metal bone shaped studs, and on the blank nametag there was some blue rope present.

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Bethany added: "This blue rope could have been used as a lead or as a tether and I am hoping the distinctive nature of the collar on this black lurcher may help jog people's memories as to who may have recently owned him.

"The area is a popular dog walking spot so we are keen to hear from anyone who may have seen anything suspicious who can help with our enquiries.

"We'd urge anyone with first hand information to contact us via our Inspectorate's appeal line number on 0300 123 8018 and you quote reference number 01884608."