A kitten has died after a litter was found dumped in a bush.

Volunteers from Cherwell Cats Protection picked up two 'very weak and cold' kittens in Bloxham this week.

They were around five weeks old when they were found by a schoolboy in a bush near the Warriner School.

The charity named them Axel and Rune.

But tragically one of the kittens did not make it and died overnight on Tuesday (October 15). 

READ MORE: City council acquires 350 homes at Barton Park

Now Cherwell Cats Protection, which cares for cats and kittens in need around Bicester, Banbury, Brackley and Chipping Norton, are asking for struggling pet owners first to seek support before abandoning animals.

Cherwell Cats Protection, formed in 2006, is run by a small team of volunteers.  

The charity posted a message online which, said: "Rescues are very full and we have a long waiting list but if you are struggling with kittens please get in touch so we can try and help you.

"As an organisation Cats Protection has seen a huge increase in cat abandonment.

"These are not the only cats in our care who have been abandoned.

"Please neuter your cats and if you can’t afford it please contact us and we can advise what your options might be."

Anyone with concerns should contact the charity by email at enquiries@cherwell.cats.org.uk