THREE small baby kittens were found ‘frightened, hungry and vulnerable’, abandoned on the side of a country lane in Widnes.

A Warrington animal shelter spoke of its ‘heartbreak’ at the shocking discovery, after taking the trio into safety yesterday, Wednesday.

The kittens, newly named Snap, Crackle and Pop, were found having been ‘dumped in the middle of nowhere’ and are no older than 10 weeks old.

In a devastating post on social media, a Warrington Animal Welfare spokesperson said: “They were found abandoned in a country lane in Widnes.

“Left to fend for themselves, wearing flea collars, no older than 10 weeks, just babies. They had been out there frightened, hungry, and vulnerable.

“How could anyone dump such defenceless creatures in the middle of nowhere, leaving them at risk of being run over, attacked by foxes, or worse?

“It’s not just irresponsible, it’s beyond cruel. These sweet kittens were slightly underweight and terrified when they were rescued.”

The shelter confirmed that the kittens are now being cared for by its team of volunteers and are ‘starting to do well in our care’.

Issuing a stark warning to pet owners, the spokesperson added: “Please, if you ever find yourself in a situation where you can't care for an animal, seek help.

“There are always options. Abandoning them is not the answer.”