A giant rabbit was taken into custody after being spotted by a police patrol in Canterbury in the early hours of Sunday.

PCs Matt Jackson and Yasmin Mossadegh spotted the animal near the Alfa Romeo garage in Northgate at about 2.20am.

They were concerned about its safety and worried it might cause an accident if it surprised a motorist.

PC Jackson said: "After several failed attempts trying to grab the rabbit, we removed our coats to try and cover it with a bull fighting technique.

"Again this failed. Kind-hearted pet-loving members of the public who were passing by, saw us struggling and rushed to our assistance.

"Now, with 10 pairs of hands at the ready, the rabbit’s time on the run was coming to an end."

They followed the rabbit down the road and eventually captured it.

Nicknamed Tiny, it was taken to Barton animal hospital in New Dover Road for the RSPCA to collect.

It is not known where the animal came from.

• Are you the owner of the giant rabbit? If so, contact our newsdesk on 01227 475985 or email kentishgazette@thekmgroup.co.uk