A CAT rescuer is today pleading with the public not to dump their pets after three kittens were left for dead on the banks of the River Darwen.

The three six-week-old females were dumped in a holdall. It was not until the next morning that they were discovered by a resident out walking her dog on Shorey Bank, Darwen.

Maureen Savage, of Moggies Cat Rescue, Stansfield Street, said: "It seems like they have been dumped there because the owner just couldn't handle them.

"Leaving them by the canal left them exposed to all sorts and they could have died had they been left there any longer.

"Please can people contact me or the RSPCA if they can't look after their cats. Then we can find them loving homes."

All three kittens have now been spayed and Maureen is searching for homes.

She said: "They were left shocked by the whole ordeal but they are perfectly healthy and in good shape."

To offer a home to the kittens or to find out more information about Moggies Cat Rescue, contact Maureen on 01254 708171.