A MAN has been reported to prosecutors over the death of a dog that was tied to a tree and set on fire.

The animal, believed to be a Staffordshire terrier, was found dead in a wooded area of north Kirkcaldy, Fife, on April 25.

Police and animal welfare workers described the attack as a sickening act of cruelty which would have seen the dog suffer considerable pain before it died.

A 23-year-old man has been reported to the procurator fiscal over the death and remains in police custody after being charged with a number of other offences.

Detective Sergeant Graeme Dursley said: "This has been a horrific crime. I would like to assure the public that the incident is isolated to the death of the dog in question and this investigation is not linked to any other acts of cruelty to animals."