A POLICE investigation has been launched into the mystery surrounding a number of cat deaths in Burnley.

Trinity community beat manager PC Adam Gordon is appealing for the public's help to help him get to the bottom of the incidents.

Over the past week, one cat was found seriously injured and two were found dead in Raglan Road, Melrose Avenue and Nairn Street.

PC Gordon is keeping an open mind as to how the cats came by their injuries but he said foul play cannot be ruled out.

"The owners of the cats are obviously very distressed and keen for us to find out exactly how their pets became injured.

"It may be that one or more of them was simply run over but on the other hand, it is possible that they were purposely harmed. We are obviously keen to find out what happened so I would urge anyone with information to contact us.

He added: "I don't want to alarm cat owners but I would ask that they be extra vigilant and report anything suspicious immediately.

"I would also ask that anyone who may have run over a cat or injured it by accident has the confidence to come forward so that we can solve this mystery and give some degree of comfort to the cat owners concerned."

RSPCA Inspector Dave Anforth said: "If the investigation does uncover any maltreatment, we would not hesitate to bring prosecutions against offenders."

Anybody with information can contact PC Gordon on 07984316849 or contact the station on 01282 425001 or alternatively, call Crimestoppers free on 0800 555 111.