A heap of dead animals which were left yards away from a public footpath near Baldock have been removed.

Police investigated the heap – which was situated on privately-owned land in Spital Wood – after reports from concerned members of the public, but upon arrival yesterday morning they discovered the dead animals had been removed.

Despite many people reacting to a picture of the heap – taken by a ‘horrified walker’ – on social media with outrage, police confirmed that the animals had been lawfully disposed of.

A police spokesman said: “Utilising the skills and local knowledge of our countryside partners, officers from the Rural Operational Tactical Support Team have been able to establish that what is believed to be a stink-pit on land near Baldock has been removed.

“Stink-pits are often used by gamekeepers and farmers as places to dispose of animals such as rabbits and squirrels which have been lawfully destroyed.

“In this instance the location of the stink-pit was unfortunate and has caused offence but as it no longer appears to be at the location no further action is required.”