Six adorable kittens were rescued by police from Western Elms Avenue after being dumped in a cardboard box on the street.

The animals were discovered by a member of the public as they were making their way down Oxford Road.

It is now thought that there is a further kitten and a mother cat missing somewhere in the area.

Police in Reading have alerted residents on Oxford Road against looking for the missing cats. They are currently working alongside a charity to help in the search.

According to one resident, he believes that the new laws that require all cats to be microchipped will increase the likelihood of this happening in the future.

From Monday, June 10, it is now illegal to own a cat that is not microchipped and could result in a £500 fine.

Another resident said: “Poor babies well done to all that help them I hope mum and remaining kitten are found safe they don't look in good condition bless them.”