The RSPCA has warned that animal cruelty is on the rise - with the charity receiving 398 cruelty reports so far this year in Warwickshire alone, with its busiest period yet to come.

The new figures, exclusively released today (17 July) by the RSPCA, show there have already been 44,879 reports of cruelty towards animals so far this year across England and Wales up to the end of June.

This is more than two per cent higher than the 43,983 calls received during the same timeframe last year.

But the worst could be yet to come. Last year saw the charity receive a report of animal cruelty every five minutes during its busiest summer months - and its officers are now braced for another busy period.

Last summer, reports of intentional harm towards animals rose by 11% compared with the previous year, with animal beating reports also rose sharply - by 17 per cent.

The animal welfare charity has now launched its 'No Animal Deserves Cruelty' summer appeal as it responds to this seasonal peak in cruelty.

Karen Colman, who heads up the RSPCA welfare oversight team, said: "Sadly, animal cruelty reports are on the rise this year - and in Warwickshire alone, we've seen 398 animal cruelty reports already this year.

"Reports of international harm towards animals and beatings also rose sharply across the country last summer - so we're preparing for a difficult period ahead.

"But rescuing animals from cruelty, investigating harm caused to them, and acting to prevent animal abuse, is a job no other charity does. We'll always be here to pick up the pieces and show those animals the kindness and care they deserve."

The RSPCA hopes support from people across Warwickshire will help make the difference for animals this year.

"Summer is a really challenging time for us - and we're braced for another busy season on the frontline, but we cannot do this alone." added Karen.

More information on the RSPCA's No Animal Deserves Cruelty Appeal can be found on the charity's website.