The mutilated body of a cat has been found in woodland in Kent.

Tunbridge Wells Community Safety Partnership, which is made up of a range of partners including Kent Police and the county council, was alerted to the grisly finding by a member of the public.

The animal was discovered in Hargate Forest, to the south of Broadwater Down.

A spokesman for the group said: "We’ve received images of a mutilated cat. From what we can tell the cat is possibly black and white and was killed over the weekend.

"These were definitely the actions of a person/s that needs some psychological support which we would be happy to offer a referral for.

"If you live nearby or were walking in the forest and heard anything or have any information then please contact us.

"The police and/or RSPCA will prosecute those people who think its OK to abuse or kill animals. Any information will be taken in confidence."

An investigation into the death is being led by the RSPCA.

South Norwood Animal Rescue and Liberty (SNARL), who are working with the RSPCA and the Met Police to try and identify a prolific cat killer operating in the South East, say they are also aware of the incident.

The group has evidence of more than 100 victims which have been mutilated in similar ways, all thought to have been the work of the same person known as the Croydon Cat Killer or M25 Animal Killer.

If you have any information email communitysafety@tunbridgewells.gov.uk or call the police on 101.