FURIOUS RSPCA inspectors are hunting the heartless person who dumped these adorable kittens in a cardboard box in sub-zero temperatures.

The tiny bundles of fur were found outside the Spar shop in Wool and now vets are hunting for new homes in time for Christmas.

The little tortoiseshell and white female has been named Sparkle, after the Spar shop, and the short-haired, black male, Spartacus.

Both are doing well after being treated for fleas and worms, potentially fatal in such young animals.

RSPCA Inspector Graham Hammond said Sparkle and Spartacus represent an increasing number of animals being abandoned, victims of the tough economic climate.

But he warned that offenders face tough penalties, including six months imprisonment and six months in jail.

“Animals of all kinds are proving difficult to re-home, including kittens. Traditionally there has always been a queue of people waiting for kittens but that is not the case any more” said Mr Hammond.

“This crime has been reported to the police and we are very keen to find out who would do such a thing.”

The kittens, who were found at 6pm on Tuesday, are being cared for at Heathlands Veterinary Hospital in Winfrith Newburgh.

Anyone with information about the offence is asked to call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999 and those who may be able to offer the kittens a home should call Tracey Porter at Heathlands on 01929 462535.