Body of cat found burned on Portobello beach

The burnt body of a small cat has been found on Portobello Beach in Edinburgh.

It was discovered in the remains of a fire by a member of the Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home on their way to work at about 07:00 on Wednesday.

The Scottish SPCA said the cat was “completely burned and unrecognisable” and it was not known if it was alive or dead before being placed in the fire.

The animal charity is appealing for information over reports of two middle-aged men seen near a bonfire on the beach at on Tuesday afternoon.

A Scottish SPCA officer said: “This is a very upsetting case and we are keen to establish what happened.

“If anyone was in the area of Portobello Beach on Tuesday evening or Wednesday morning and saw anything suspicious, or has any information at all that could help, we would urge them to contact our confidential animal helpline.”

An Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home spokesman told BBC Scotland: “A member of our team came across the harrowing incident on Portobello beach and immediately reported the matter to the relevant authorities to ensure a full and thorough investigation.

“As an animal welfare charity we are distressed and heartbroken to witness any potential abuse of animals.

“We hope the public will come forward with any information that might help identify who is responsible.”