A dog found abandoned in a park is being cared for at an animal rescue centre.

The female German shepherd, who has been named Gypsy, was discovered tied up outside the public toilets at Maldon’s Promenade Park last Saturday.

The animal, believed to be about six-years-old, was rescued by the RSPCA and is now being cared for at the Danaher Animal Centre, in Wethersfield.

RSPCA inspector Steve Craddock said: "She is a lovely dog - very calm and very friendly. It is unbelievable that anyone would just abandon a beautiful dog like this.”

“Gypsy was suffering from an ear infection and in great discomfort when she was found, but was given immediate vet treatment and is now much better."

Anyone with information about who dumped the dog is urged to contact the RSPCA in confidence on 0300 1234999.