SKELETAL remains of a dog were discovered dumped in bushes behind Cunningham Road, Ditton in Widnes, yards from a spot where children play.

An incensed resident blasted Halton Council for taking two weeks to remove the decaying carcass.

"I think it's disgusting," said a Cunningham Road resident. "Kids play there and it is not a very nice thing for them to see. It's terrible that owners have done this but the council should have removed it straightaway."

A Halton Council spokesperson said their workman couldn't find the dead dog when it was first reported.

"He returned yesterday (Monday) and was shown the spot. However, the dog was buried in a shrub bed which is why he had been unable to spot it. He had to dig up the animal to remove it for disposal."