An investigation is under way after a neglected horse found dumped on the side of the road in Ashford had to be put down.

Police were called at 6.55am on Friday after the animal was found distressed and extremely neglected in Knoll Lane in the Stanhope area of the town.

Officers believe the horse was abandoned there on Thursday evening and police attended with the RSPCA and a vet.

The horse was in such bad health and so much pain that the vet advised it should be put down immediately to prevent any further suffering.

It had infected knees which had gone septic and could hardly breathe when it was found.

Kent Police and the RSPCA are now investigating who was responsible for allowing the horse to get in such bad condition and for dumping the helpless animal.

They are appealing for witnesses or anyone who might have any information.

Inspector Jay Allen said: "The horse was in very poor health and had obviously been severely neglected.

"Its knees were infected and septic it could barely move or catch its breath. The body was covered in open sores and its tail was one solid mass.

"Although it was very sad, on the advice of the vet and the RSPCA officer it was decided to put the horse out of its misery.

"An investigation has been launched to try and find the owner and the person responsible for causing this suffering."

Anyone with information is urged to contact Kent Police on 101.