CLACTON MP Giles Watling has met with RSPCA chiefs in Clacton in a bid to tackle animal welfare abuse in the town.

Mr Watling called for action last year after it was revealed Tendring had the most complaints and convictions over animal cruelty in Essex.

It was revealed there were 527 complaints against owners and seven convictions - the highest for any district in Essex.

Mr Watling met RSPCA local chief inspector Samantha Garvey and the charity’s senior parliamentary advisor Rachel Williams to raise concerns about animal cruelty in the town.

He joined Mrs Garvey as she responded to incidents throughout the constituency, including the rescue of an undernourished German shepherd.

The dog is now recovering and doing well.

Mr Watling said: “Some cases of animal neglect are as a result of ignorance – not knowing how to care for animals.

“Unfortunately, such cases are all too common in our local area, and I am pleased that the RSPCA is working so hard to combat this issue.

“During the session, we also found a link between animal cruelty and human deprivation, and alerted social services where necessary.

“Having witnessed a number of distressing situations throughout the constituency, it is clear to me that we must do more to eradicate animal cruelty, and I will continue to work with closely with the RSPCA to stop animal cruelty, both locally and nationally.”

Clacton is one of the worst areas nationally for animal cruelty.

The RSPCA said it is working hard to help not just cats and dogs, but a broad spectrum of animals including horses and birds.