KITTENS found dumped in a sealed box have been taken in by a cat rescue in Wrexham.

The five kittens, thought to be about four weeks old, were found dumped in taped-closed box in an unmaintained garden in Blacon, Chester late on Tuesday evening and were taken in by the Wrexham-based Candy & Tibby Trust.

The cat rescue has described the matter as "so upsetting and shocking".

A spokesperson said: "These kittens are very lucky to have been found but somewhere there is a stressed out mum who has had her babies torn away long before they are ready.

"We now have a number of kittens needing solid food, so any donations of kitten food, or help to buy will be much appreciated.

"These little ones haven’t been vet checked as yet, as it was late when they arrived.

"But once they are old enough and we know they are generally healthy, we will prioritise people on the waiting list who have already had a home check, and if they have no matches on the list we will make them available for new enquiries."

People took to social media to express their anger at the incident, with those responsible branded "monsters" and "evil".

One person said: "I just don't understand the cruelty, it's so sad."

Another added: "What is wrong with people? It’s heartbreaking.

"Glad they have found their way into safe hands."

The Candy & Tibby Trust is urging people to neuter or spay their cats to avoid large numbers of kittens being born.