Hamsters dumped in ‘tatty’ boxes

A warning has been issued about the implications of taking on small pets after two hamsters were found dumped in a field in Canterbury.

The animals were discovered in two “tatty” boxes by a passerby, who took them home and called the RSPCA.

Animal collection officer Brian Milligan picked up the hamsters - one a Syrian male and the second, a female Roborovski - and took them to RSPCA Leybourne Animal Centre, in West Malling, for care.

“One of the hamsters was a little lethargic but they’re both doing well in our care,” he said.

“The male has been named Theodore and the female is now known as Mrs Packman.”

If the hamsters are not claimed, staff will begin searching for new homes for them.

Mr Milligan said: “I understand that people sometimes end up in situations where they may struggle to care for their pet and we’d always urge anyone in that situation to contact us, other charities or even their vet for help.

“There’s no excuse to abandon a vulnerable pet in a box in a field like this.

“There are several different breeds and varieties of hamster which can live for two years or even longer.

“While hamsters are popular first-time pets for children and can make wonderful family pets, they are a significant responsibility and it’s really important that families do their research before taking one on.”

Anyone with information about where the hamsters came from or who was responsible for dumping them is urged to call 0300 1238018.

Police descended on an industrial unit in Hersden as part of their investigation into the suspected murder of a pub landlord.

Officers executed a warrant at Ling Metals on the Lakesview Business Park in connection with the death of Joe Daniels, 58, who was shot at the Red Cow pub in Folkestone in 2017.

The raid on Monday coincided with a search at an address in Beach Road, Westgate-on-sea, where a man in his 20s was arrested.

He was questioned on suspicion of murder and conspiracy to supply firearms, and bailed until March 15.