Two emaciated pet rabbits have been found dead and dumped outside a Somerset shopping centre.

The RSPCA is appealing for information to discover the culprit. The charity was alerted after a security guard discovered the animals inside a white carrier bag at the Quedam Shopping Centre, in Yeovil early on Monday.

Both rabbits were adult and female. One was white in colour and the other black. Death may have been from starvation.

RSPCA inspector Marie Griffiths said: "To dump the bodies of two pets in this way is macabre and strange but the real concern is how they died as they were clearly in a very emaciated state.

"I would urge anyone with information about these poor creatures to contact the RSPCA so we can ensure there are no other animals in desperate need of help."

Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, anyone found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal can face up to six months in prison and/or a £20,000 fine.

Anyone with information should call 0300 1234 999 and leave a message for inspector Marie Griffiths. Calls are in confidence.