THE RSPCA are trying to trace the owner of a tortoise found dumped in a box in a park.

Animal collection officer Laura Waters was called on 12 October after a woman found the little tortoise in a box.

Mrs Waters said: “The lady kindly picked up the box and took it home with her where she could keep the tortoise safe until we arrived to collect him,” ACO Water said.

"The spur-thighed tortoise is quite small and has some damage to his shell. Other than that, he’s in fairly good condition and is now being cared for by a local specialist.

"We often get calls about tortoises - some of which have escaped and we’re able to reunite with their owners, and some of which have been abandoned. Sadly, it seems as though this tortoise has been dumped."

RSPCA exotics expert Stephanie Jayson said: "This tortoise would not have been able to fend for himself and survive out in the open, particularly as the temperature has dropped significantly in recent weeks."

The RSPCA has urged anyone who recognises the tortoise found at Moor Park in Preston or knows who is responsible for abandoning him to contact its appeal line on 0300 123 8018.