An abandoned dog found covered in maggots and badly injured with a suspected gun shot wound has died.

Vets desperately tried to save Nellie - a very poorly Jack Russell - after she was discovered in an incredibly bad state on the side of Eastling Road in Faversham.

But Swale Borough Council Stray Dog Service has confirmed this afternoon that her condition deteriorated, so it was thought best to "stop her suffering" and she was euthanised.

They posted on Facebook: "It was with great sadness that we have to announce Nellie has passed over the rainbow bridge.

"Unfortunately after our last update she deteriorated further and the kindest thing we could do at that point was to stop her suffering.

"It's a bitter sweet ending for our officers who work tirelessly to help all stray dogs and it wasn't a decision that was made lightly. Nellie is one of the first we couldn't save and it's hit us hard.

"We can take some solace in the knowledge that during her last hours, she knew nothing but warmth and love.

"Thank you to everyone who showed support and kept their fingers crossed, we're sorry it wasn't a better outcome."

Nellie, who was not chipped, was found collapsed on the side of the road and was severely dehydrated and covered in maggots.

She also had a large wound on the upper part of her body which vets believed was caused by a gun shot.

Anyone who believes they know who owned Nellie is urged to call the council on 01795 417850, or the out of hours service on 07795 237479.

Read more: All the latest news from Faversham