An investigation is under way today after someone bludgeoned to death three small kittens – and left them by the side of the road.

The killer left the young cats lined up together on a grassy mound in full view of people walking through the village of Benhall Green, near Saxmundham.

RSPCA officials say the case is “very unusual” and are appealing for the public to help them trace the person responsible.

Officers say the kittens were five months old and had suffered head injuries consistent with having been bludgeoned.

The kittens were found on September 22 at around 12.30pm on a grass verge known as The Knoll by the side of the road.

The RSPCA were alerted by staff at a local veterinary practice who had been called by a worried member of the public. The vet had gone out to the scene to inspect the dead animals before making a report to the animal welfare charity.

The the kittens – one black and two black and white in colour – had injuries on their noses and ears.

RSPCA Inspector Jason Finch said: “Clearly this does not appear to be a road traffic accident and it seems these kittens were deliberately harmed.

“It is a very sad situation and must have been distressing for the member of public who found them.”

The charity is carrying out an investigation and is able to bring a prosecution if it gathers enough evidence for a case.

It has appealed for anyone who recognises the kittens, saw them being dumped by the side of the road, or has any information on what happened to them to ring the inspectorate line on 0300 123 8018.