A dead horse and a bin containing animal bones “and other remains of some sort” were dumped in a road near the M1.

They were found in a lay-by in Blunts Lane, Chiswell Green, on August 11.

St Albans District Council says a specialist contractor was called to take away the body of a grey stallion that had been left on the road.

“There was also a bin, containing animal bones and other remains of some sort,” a council spokesperson added.

“We were told it was full of dead puppies, but that did not appear to be the case.”

Hertfordshire County Council says it was also notified of a dead animal in the road, adding that by the time an emergency team attended it was gone.

Police were also called over the incident.

“However, there is no suggestion a criminal offence has taken place,” a Hertfordshire Constabulary spokesperson said.

“The animals were removed by the local council.”