An animal sanctuary has had a number of its animals seized and put down after a joint operation between the police and the RSPCA.

Officers from both agencies were seen at Stratton Strawless near Horsford yesterday afternoon.

Focusing on the Hallswood Sanctuary, the operation relates to concerns over the animal's welfare.

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Several of their animals were seized under Section 18 of the Animal Welfare Act - legislation giving inspectors the power to help animals in distressing and suffering circumstances.

A spokesman for Norfolk Constabulary said: "Wild animals were also found on site, such as squirrels, seizure of these animals is under the power of Section 26 of The Invasive Alien Species Order 2019.

The sanctuary is on Shortthorn Road near HorsfordThe sanctuary is on Shortthorn Road near Horsford (Image: Google)"Police are investigating the circumstances around the matter."

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Specialist vets were at the scene to examine the animals with some euthanised on "welfare grounds".

Other animals have been taken by the vets for ongoing assessment.

A spokesperson for the RSPCA said: “This is a police-led operation which the RSPCA is assisting with. As this is an active investigation we are unable to provide any more information.”

Hallswood Animal Sanctuary has been approached for comment.