POLICE are appealing for information following the discovery of the bodies of three dogs, all apparently shot in the head.

A member of the public found the body of a sandy-coloured greyhound in a field off Salter's Lane in Seaham, County Durham.

He reported it to an animal charity six weeks ago then contacted police after receiving no response.

When officers went to the scene on Wednesday night they found the decomposing body, and that of a black greyhound, which had been shot in the head.

Police believe both dogs had finished their racing careers.

Witnesses reported seeing three men with a greyhound getting out of blue Escort van on Monday evening, which later drove off in the direction of Murton.

In a separate incident, the body of a rottweiler was found on Wednesday night near the Dawdon link road. It had a rope around its neck but was lying on the ground and also appeared to have been shot in the head.

Police are liaising with RSPCA officers and would like to hear from anyone who knows anything about the incidents. Anyone with information should contact Seaham police on 0191-581 2255.