A rescue centre owner who was banned from keeping animals for a life after two horses in her care had to be put down has had her sentence upheld following an appeal.

Lynn Haydon-Williams, 65, of Redgate, Hyde, Greater Manchester, was given the lifetime ban after she was found guilty of 13 animal welfare offences relating to horses, goats and a coatimundi (a member of the raccoon family) and sentenced on 28 March 2024. She was given a six-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, and ordered to carry out 240 hours of unpaid work.

Haydon-Williams lodged an appeal against her convictions and sentence. On 3 July 2025 a judge at Manchester Crown Court quashed two of the convictions; failing to provide a suitable environment and keeping an animal listed as an invasive alien species, relating to the coatimundi.

The other 11 convictions were upheld; five relating to horses, three relating to goats, three relating to pigs and a charge relating to a hedgehog and tortoises. Haydon-Williams failed to get veterinary treatment for a gelding named Casper who was suffering from laminitis, and did not get dental treatment for Casper, a mare called Gemma and stallion called Deio. She failed to get the necessary treatment for Gemma’s sarcoids and did not address the cause of her lameness, and she did not meet Deio’s needs.

An RSPCA spokesperson said the charity identified several welfare issues at Haywill Animal Rescue and Therapy Centre’s sites at Glossop in Derbyshire and Broadbottom in Tameside, Greater Manchester during visits in 2020 and 2021.

“On several visits to the sites the charity’s officers found horses in poor conditions, one who was suffering with multiple tumours, and lame goats. There were also overweight pigs with hoof problems and arthritic coatimundi,” said the spokesperson.

At the previous hearing, the court heard that the RSPCA advised Haydon-Williams to seek veterinary care during visits to both sites.

On one occasion in May 2021, RSPCA Inspector Jessica Araujo found “goats with overgrown feet struggling to walk normally and grossly obese pigs”.

“Haydon-Williams was told that veterinary advice was that the horse covered with skin tumours should have been put down to end their suffering. But the equine, called Gemma, was not euthanised until after the RSPCA and Derbyshire Police secured a warrant to enter the centre in September 2022 when 10 goats, three horses, a pig and a coati were all removed,” said the RSPCA spokesperson.

“Another horse, called Casper, who was suffering with a severe foot condition was also put down as well as a pig suffering with overgrown feet. An emaciated pygmy goat and the coatimundi passed away later.”

In mitigation at the previous trial it was said that Haydon-Williams did “good work for many people for a long time” at the centre, but Covid had impacted on her finances lessening her ability to look after the animals.

The judge ruled Haydon-Williams’ sentence should remain, stating that it was “entirely appropriate”.

“Despite the poor condition of the animals we have no doubt that the defendant is someone who cares deeply about animals, including these animals,” the judge said.

Haydon-Williams was ordered to pay an additional £600 towards the costs of her appeal. The surviving animals, a horse and 10 goats, were rehomed by the RSPCA.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

Experts call for change as animal welfare law system is lacking

Teenage pony left tied up in a car park with infected, maggot-infested wound had to be put down *warning: upsetting picture*

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Calls have been made for a review of the enforcement of animal welfare legislation – as the current system is “lacking”.

On 24 February the Government’s animal sentience committee published an independent report on the “compliance and enforcement” of animal welfare regulations.

The report highlighted issues including inconsistencies in monitoring and enforcement of the legislation, discrepancies in actions taken by the different agencies responsible, and in welfare inspector training.

Among the topics, the committee addressed reporting and prosecutions, stating that it was “striking” that in the UK many potential welfare breaches are directed to an animal welfare charity such as the RSPCA rather than a Government agency – and that “if charitable donations were to diminish, capacity to deliver this public service could not be relied upon”.

The report said the “landscape of enforcement has recently changed”, as the RSPCA, previously responsible for a large proportion of animal welfare prosecutions, explored the possibility of ceding this to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). But it added that, “it was unclear whether the CPS has the necessary resource or expertise to assume this responsibility, and whether this is likely to become adopted policy”.

“The RSPCA has indicated a rise in animal welfare offences linked to organised crime, which it feels ill-equipped to take on through private prosecution; this would suggest a need for the state to take a greater role to protect animal welfare,” said the committee.

An RSPCA spokesperson told H&H the charity agrees with the report’s assessment that the state should play a bigger part in prosecutions.

Active discussions

“Although the CPS is the statutory body with responsibility for criminal prosecutions, the RSPCA currently undertakes 85% of animal welfare cases. For the last two years, we have been actively discussing the transferral of our prosecutions to the CPS with the Government,” said the spokesperson.

“We have a 200-year history of investigating and prosecuting in this crucial area and until the UK Government allows us to transfer our prosecutions to the CPS, we will continue to responsibly bring cases.

“Wherever possible, we work with owners to improve welfare for their animals, through education, support and advice, which means less than 1% of reports of cruelty and neglect result in prosecution. When we do take a prosecution, we apply the same robust tests as the CPS and have safeguards, including independent solicitors who review our cases and an independent oversight panel.”

The spokesperson added that the RSPCA’s prosecution success rate is more than 90%.

The committee’s report concluded that “although due regard to animal welfare has been given in policy decisions, the current structures are, in part, inconsistent for effective enforcement of animal welfare”.

It said that although progress has been made, including the updated sentencing guidelines and introduction of fixed penalties, the committee considers that “an effective, structured, fair and integrated system of animal welfare surveillance and enforcement is lacking”.

The committee recommended a “wholesale review” of animal welfare enforcement to provide a resource for policymakers, improve or enhance delivery of current legislation and “maintain public trust in the enforcement process”.

Suggestions include creating a central body responsible for coordinating animal welfare law surveillance and implementation, setting out minimum resource allocation for animal welfare enforcement – including budgets for training, creating a centrally recognised mechanism for reporting welfare offences, and appropriate and effective use of fixed penalty and improvement notices.

Review welcomed

Kim Ayling, World Horse Welfare’s head of public affairs, told H&H the charity supports the recommendations “overall” and “wholeheartedly welcomes” a review.

“Equine health and welfare laws are worthless if they are not backed up by robust and consistent enforcement,” she said.

“From our own experience, the lack of any prosecutions around the recent cases of horse smuggling highlights there are significant concerns with enforcement. These are due to inconsistencies in interpretation and implementation of legislation, gaps in information and intelligence sharing across enforcement agencies and a lack of adequately trained and resourced animal welfare officers.”

Ms Ayling added that World Horse Welfare was “disappointed” the report did not include the suggestion of a centralised system for people banned from keeping or caring for animals.

“We are aware of a number of recent equine welfare cases where it has been challenging for authorities to establish whether an individual was banned from keeping those animals,” she said.

“As part of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare (APGAW), we are working with local authorities and other welfare charities to implement one of the key recommendations of APGAW’s report Improving the Effectiveness of Animal Welfare Enforcement to set up a panel of representatives from local authorities engaged in enforcing animal welfare law to cover not just farm animals but companion and exotic animals, too.

“This would allow them to work collaboratively to share information, best practice and ensure better consistency in their approaches.

“While we welcome the points laid out in the report to protect equine welfare, we would like to see a ring-fenced budget to support these measures. A centralised and digitalised ID and traceability system is also essential for enforcement, as we know without it horses are vulnerable to suffering at the hands of those that see them merely as commodities.”

A Defra spokesperson told H&H the government “welcomes” the committee’s report and will be “considering all recommendations carefully”.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

‘Is there horse meat in your lasagne? Don’t know’: equestrian industry’s warning to Government

Five horses put down after shipment including sick equines and terrified foals intercepted

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A group of neglected ponies suffered “extensive” toxic burns leaving them with “crocodile-like skin” when their owner allowed them to fly-graze on land on which St John’s wort was growing.

John Darren Ware, 47, of Blakemere Crescent, Portsmouth, was sentenced at Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court on 12 August, having pleaded guilty to two animal welfare offences at a previous hearing.

On 28 July the RSPCA and World Horse Welfare attended council-owned conservation land in Farlington, Portsmouth, “heavily contaminated with dangerous weeds”, where eight ponies were grazing without permission. There was no evidence of additional hay, feed, or shelter.

An RSPCA spokesperson said three of the ponies had “extensive facial lesions” that were thick, raised, brown, and crusted, covering the muzzle and encircling both eyes, as well as raised crusting lesions over their bodies. The other five ponies had less severe lesions to their muzzles.

“The vet who examined the horses was concerned because of all the horses having similar lesions and suspected they had been in contact with a toxic substance,” said the spokesman, adding that tests revealed all eight ponies “were not in good health with evidence of inflammation and a chronic infection.

“The ponies also showed evidence of burns to the non-pigmented skin that is consistent with damage by UV light. The vet concluded that this was caused by exposure or contact with St John’s wort.”

The vet report said that certain weeds, like St John’s wort, contain “photodynamic agents that when the horse has contact or ingests the weed there is an exacerbated reaction to sunlight causing burns to the skin. This would be termed a primary photosensitisation.”

“Other weeds, such as ragwort, can cause damage to organs. The resulting damage prevents the filtering of photosensitive waste products so they are retained in other areas of the body, such as the skin, which causes what is known as a secondary photosensitisation,” read the report.

Tests showed that “no signs of the physiological impact of secondary photosensitivity so it was concluded St John’s wort had caused issues for the horses”.

The vet report added that horses suffering from photosensitisation should be removed from direct sunlight, prevented from further contact with the photodynamic agent, protected from the sun with shelter, and burns and injuries treated. It was also noted that burns around the muzzle are “particularly painful because it is highly sensitive.”

Hampshire’s RSPCA chief inspector Paul Williams said the RSPCA is grateful to World Horse Welfare for helping the ponies and that “thankfully they’ve now recovered”.

“Our plea to all animal owners is to make sure they always receive care and treatment they need when they need it. Animals are completely reliant on their owners to ensure their needs are met and they are kept safe and healthy,” he said.

World Horse Welfare field officer Penny Baker said “this was a truly horrific case”.

“I do not think I have ever seen ponies with so much crocodile-like skin around their muzzles. They must have been in excruciating pain,” she said.

“Keeping a horse or pony well is about much more than just food and water – it’s also making sure they do not have access to poisonous plants, can be protected from the elements and of course get prompt veterinary treatment when they need it.

“We are very grateful to the member of the public who alerted us to these ponies, and we were pleased to be able to work with the RSPCA to remove them from this appalling state of neglect.”

In mitigation, Ware was said to be unaware of the severity of the situation and thought it was sunburn. He said he had applied sun cream to one of the horses about a week before the visit by the charities but did not seek veterinary help.

Ware was banned from keeping equines for 10 years. He was ordered to pay £750 costs and a victim surcharge, and to carry out 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days.

The ponies were signed into the care of the RSPCA and went into private boarding for rehoming.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout Blenheim Horse Trials, Horse of the Year Show, London International and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

Pony found in ‘shocking state’ beside dead companion makes full recovery

Horses rescued from ‘field of death’ reunited with those who went to their aid

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A starved pony found in a “shocking state” beside his dead field companion has made a full recovery – and their owner has been banned from keeping equines.

Shane Paul Sims, 36, of Gilpin Close, Kingswood, Bristol, was sentenced at Bristol Magistrates’ Court on 5 August, after pleading guilty to two animal welfare offences

Between 2 November and 4 December 2023 Sims caused unnecessary suffering to ponies Soul and Denz, and between 2 October and 4 December 2023 he failed to meet the ponies’ needs.

An RSPCA spokesperson said concerns were raised about the two ponies to the charity by callers, who reported that one pony was dead and the other “very underweight”, on land in Westerleigh, Gloucestershire.

When RSPCA officers arrived they found Denz dead, and Soul with his “bones visible”. There was no evidence of supplementary feeding or hay in the muddy field.

A vet report stated that Soul’s poor body condition score showed he “may have been on an unacceptable diet, especially for a young horse”.

“This will have led to hunger, muscle breakdown, lethargy and potentially poor development. It is estimated that this weight loss and associated suffering caused by the aforementioned will have occurred over a period of approximately two months,” the report said.

The vet found that Soul had thrush, caused by standing in wet conditions and lack of routine hoof care. He had a worm burden, but “showed nothing abnormal to account for the body condition aside from prolonged starvation”.

The RSPCA spokesman said a post-mortem exam showed that Denz “was starved and had a high worm burden”.

The vet said that it was their opinion that Denz “had suffered”.

“Although it is impossible to say a specific time, I do not believe an animal could have reached a state of such emaciation within less than one month. In terms of what suffering Denz would have felt, I am confident that this would not have been a comfortable experience,” they said.

RSPCA inspector Dan Hatfield, who investigated the case, thanked the members of the public who raised concerns about Soul’s welfare, “enabling his rescue”.

“There is never an excuse to leave animals to suffer. Owners have a duty and responsibility to ensure the needs of their animals are met, this includes making sure they have a suitable diet and the care they need to stay healthy,” he said.

“When Soul was rescued he was in a shocking state. It was heartbreaking to see him in such an awful condition alongside his dead friend. Thankfully he’s now recovered and looking amazing after getting the help and care he needed.”

Soul was given care by charity HorseWorld where he has made “a full recovery”.

In mitigation, it was said that “this was not deliberate cruelty” by Sims. He had no knowledge of horses and knew he should have done more.

Sims was banned from keeping equines for 10 years, and this cannot be appealed for eight years. He was given an 18-week prison sentence, suspended by 24 months, and ordered to pay £200.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout the Paralympic Games, Burghley, Horse of the Year Show and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You might also be interested in:

Young rider who excelled in dressage on RSPCA rescue takes on pony saved from shipping container – and wins

Abandoned pony who followed the postman rescued from children’s playground

‘Nothing short of miraculous’ transformation of filly found near death, shod and tied to bike wrapped in barbed wire

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A Shetland pony breeder who had a “veneer of respectability within the showing world” has been sent to prison for allowing 19 ponies to suffer, eight of which had to be put down.

Retired school teacher Janet Marr, 73, of Sandall Park Rise, Doncaster, was sentenced at Sheffield Crown Court yesterday (28 May) after pleading guilty to four offences under the Animal Welfare Act.

In July 2023 World Horse Welfare was contacted by a member with concerns over ponies being kept at Wrancarr Lane, Moss, Doncaster. When the charity’s field officers attended they found 19 Shetland ponies in “varying states of neglect”, and requested the assistance of the RSPCA to investigate further.

A World Horse Welfare spokesperson said “most of the ponies were overweight, many had overgrown hooves, and a number showed signs of extreme laminitis”.

“Tragically, the severity of neglect resulted in six of the ponies needing to be euthanised onsite due to the pain and suffering caused by chronic laminitis,” he said.

An RSPCA spokesperson added that an equine vet concluded in their witness report that all the problems and suffering seen in the ponies “could all have been avoided by reasonable practical means, and that they are of the expert opinion that Marr did not take reasonable steps to meet their basic needs”.

The other 13 ponies were taken to World Horse Welfare’s Penny Farm, but “despite all efforts”, two more were put down owing to their health issues. The remaining ponies have been “successfully rehabilitated”.

The court heard that Marr had been breeding the animals for showing, and she accepted what she was accused of. She was sentenced to 12 months in prison and given a lifetime ban on keeping all animals. She cannot apply for the ban to be lifted for 12 years. A deprivation order was granted for two Shetlands that remained in her care.

“I am absolutely delighted to see the increased sentencing guidelines for animal cruelty that we successfully campaigned for, being used to good effect. We hope that we see more uses of lifetime bans in future cases,” said World Horse Welfare field officer Sarah Tucker.

“The defendant had a veneer of respectability within the showing world with two of her ponies well-looked after and in show condition, but she allowed the others to suffer in such a dreadful way, despite having received a previous caution for identical offences. So many of this group of Shetlands were suffering with laminitis and the owner will now see the consequences of allowing this to happen.”

Adam Cummins, World Horse Welfare Penny Farm manager, added that “ponies grazing endless, lush grass may seem idyllic, but the reality is very different”.

“Allowed to breed unchecked, and with uncontrolled grazing, the ever-growing herd suffered horrendously with a number of conditions, and laminitis was rife,” he said.

“It has been a long road with the surviving ponies – it takes us longer to turn around an overweight pony than one that is underweight. The number that didn’t make it shows just how devastating laminitis can be.”

You might also be interested in:

‘A really sad case’: horses had to be dug free from stables – one had not been out for two years

Owner who ‘forfeited right to have horses’ after two died admits breaching ban

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The Animal Welfare Act does not offer protection for animals that suffer owing to fireworks, experts have agreed – as further calls are made for a “comprehensive review” of regulations.

Redwings hosted a round-table discussion with attendees including World Horse Welfare, the RSPCA, vets, police and a barrister, to discuss the act in relation to times fireworks are believed to have inadvertently led to the injury or death of an animal. 

The discussion was “in response to statements made consistently by ministers at Westminster, which suggest that the act is a legislative tool that could be used in such scenarios”. 

The Animal Welfare Act states it is an offence to cause “any unnecessary suffering to a captive or domestic animal” – but there is no specific mention of fireworks.

British Horse Society figures show there were 1,468 firework incidents involving horses between 1 November 2010 and 19 March 2024, and a Redwings spokesperson said the charity is not aware of any cases where the Animal Welfare Act has been used to address the “sometimes tragic impacts on animals”. 

Some of the difficulties in applying the act were highlighted. For example, identifying who is responsible for incidents – the person who lit the firework, the landowner or the display organiser. It was agreed that there are challenges establishing a burden of proof that the firework had “unequivocally been the cause” of any suffering a horse has experienced – and the fact that setting off fireworks in line with regulations is a legal activity. 

It was agreed that revision of regulations is needed, with suggestions including introducing firework licensing, creating codes of practice and implementing control zones such as those in Scotland (news, 2 November 2023). 

“The Animal Welfare Act is a very good piece of legislation, but it wasn’t written to punish people for doing something the law currently endorses, such as holding a fireworks display in their back garden. The focus needs to be on better regulation,” said Nic de Brauwere, Redwings’ head of welfare and behaviour.

World Horse Welfare deputy chief executive Tony Tyler told H&H the act has “never been the appropriate mechanism to deal with the distress and injuries caused to horses by fireworks”.

“We are disappointed that the Government points to it as such,” he said, adding that “strengthening legislation is long overdue”. 

RSPCA scientific and policy manager Mark Kennedy told H&H “a review of regulations will protect animals from harm”. 

“We understand many people enjoy fireworks, but we can’t hide the fact that many animals find them deeply distressing and some end up injured or even lose their lives,” he said.

“We have campaigned for years urging the Government to revise fireworks regulations – ensuring they can be enjoyed responsibly, while better protecting animals. This round-table discussion showed we are not alone in wanting this.”

Redwings published a report from the discussion, which has been shared with the Government’s Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), which deals with firework legislation.

• Read the report

“We hope this report will mean that ministers will no longer hide behind the illusion that the Animal Welfare Act offers protection or recourse for those whose pets are caused to suffer because of fireworks,” said Redwings campaigns and policy manager Helen Whitelegg.

H&H contacted OPSS for comment and a spokesperson said that “due to the upcoming election and parliament being dissolved, we may not be able to confirm anything on this moving forward”. 

Redwings asked that anyone concerned about the impact of fireworks share the report with their parliamentary candidates and ask that they support calls for a review.

You might also be interested in:

‘The Government has to listen’: horse terrified by fireworks breaks his leg in the stable

‘We hope people will think again’: charity releases footage of distressed horses to show impact of fireworks

New powers to create no firework zones near stables and animal hospitals welcomed

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Two women who allowed emaciated five horses to suffer – two had to be put down and one was so underweight he had a “thigh gap” – have been sentenced.

Charlie Virginia Hingley, 27, of Netherton, West Midlands, and Lucia Kate Stanton, 19, of no fixed address but linked to King Alfred Walk, Leeds, were sentenced at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on 25 September.

At an earlier hearing Hingley had pleaded guilty to four offences of causing suffering to horses Sonny, Celly, Luna, and Bobby, between December 2022 and January 2023. Stanton admitted to causing suffering to miniature Shetland Waffles during the same period.

On 22 January witnesses contacted an equine bailiff after they saw a tractor being used to lift a collapsed horse, Celly, in a field in the vicinity of School Lane, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire. The bailiff attended and requested that Hingley contact a vet immediately. When the vet attended, a second horse, Sonny, was found collapsed and was in “such a poor state” he had to be put down on welfare grounds immediately.

**Warning: upsetting image**

Celly, who was in an emaciated condition, was relinquished by Hingley to the bailiff and removed from the site. The RSPCA was later called to check on the welfare of Luna, Bobby and Waffles, and RSPCA inspector Suzi Smith attended the field on 26 January, during which she called a vet over concerns for all three horses.

“My initial concern was for piebald mare Luna, and young Shetland Waffles, because both looked to be in poor body condition visually, despite fluffy winter coats, and Luna had rain scald on her back,” said Ms Smith.

“After taking a closer look at Luna, I could see she was significantly underweight. I could see her ribs, pelvis, spine and a shelf at the top of the ribs, and when I put my hands along Waffles’ back, neck and pelvis, I could feel all these structures easily with no muscle along the sides of the spine.”

Ms Smith was also concerned about the condition of colt Bobby, who was in a second field.

“When I asked Hingley to remove Bobby’s rugs so I could have a better look at him, I saw that his spine protruded with a clear obvious shelf each side of the spine, his pelvic bones protruded and were sharp, he had a ‘thigh gap’ with little muscle left on the legs, he walked with a weak gait,” she said.

An RSPCA spokesman said the vet confirmed the horses were suffering, and Hingley signed Luna and Bobby to the RSPCA. Waffles belonged to Stanton, and as she was not present, he was taken into possession by the police and placed into the RSPCA’s care. The three were taken to an equine hospital for further examinations and treatment.

In the vet’s witness statement, Lunda, Bobby and Waffles were described as having a body condition score of one out of five, the most likely cause a high worm burden. Waffles’ and Bobby’s coats were described as “dull and scurfy with a heavy lice infestation”, and Luna was “suffering with extensive rain scald over the back and rump”.

“Sadly, despite the vet’s best efforts, Luna’s condition deteriorated and the veterinary team made the decision to put her down to prevent her suffering further,” said the RSPCA spokesman.

Ms Smith added that the vet confirmed the pasture management of the fields was “totally inadequate with extensive faecal contamination” and that extremely high worm burdens had caused the horses’ poor body condition.

“Worm and parasite management in horses can be easily managed with an effective parasitecontrol programme, so it’s very sad that neither owner identified that the horses were underweight, nor had a parasite control plan in place which would have prevented this needless suffering,” she said.

“I am very pleased that thankfully, Waffles and Bobby made good recoveries in RSPCA care, and Celly has made a good recovery in the care of the equine bailiff. During the winter months, I would urge horse owners to get in the routine of using their hands tocheck their animals’ body condition through their winter coats, as well as regularly removing rugs to monitor their weight and check for sores.”

In mitigation it was heard that Hingley showed remorse and was of good character. Stanton’s mental health was raised as an issue.

Bobby has since been rehomed through the British Horse Society’s (BHS) second chance programme, a collaborative rehoming initiative between the BHS and welfare charities to give rescued horses and ponies a “second chance at life” through a BHS-approved yard.

Hingley was banned from owning equines for life, with no appeal allowed for 10 years. She was given two 12-week prison sentences to run concurrently, suspended for 12 months. She was given a 15-day rehabilitation activity requirement, and must pay £400 in costs. Stanton was banned from owning equines for 10 years, with no appeal for five years. She must pay a £300 fine, £400 costs, and a £120 victim surcharge.

Hingley and Stanton’s bans include being disqualified from dealing, transporting, or arranging the transport of horses.

You might also be interested in:

‘She failed in her duty and animals suffered’: woman’s life-ban on keeping animals remains after appeal quashed

‘Hard work and patience trump buying success’: RSPCA pony and child who started riding in lockdown take national title

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A woman who failed to care for more than 130 horses is facing a suspended sentence and a lifetime ban on keeping animals after her appeal was dismissed by a judge.

Christine Kelly, 61, of Portsmouth Road, Ripley, was found guilty of 15 offences under the Animal Welfare Act following a trial last summer. The case related to what has been described as “one of the biggest animal welfare operations ever in the UK”.

She was found guilty of failing to meet the needs of 131 equines, and was also convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to horses, dogs and goats.

She had claimed through the investigation that she was not responsible for all the animals found on site. After her sentencing, she launched an appeal.

The appeal hearing took eight days at Guildford Crown Court and on Friday (23 June), it was was dismissed by a judge.

This means she was given a six-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, for each charge to run concurrently. She is also disqualified for keeping all animals for life, which cannot be appealed for 10 years, and ordered to pay a £122 victim surcharge. Kelly has also been served with a deprivation order, meaning the remaining animals in charity care can now be rehomed.

Christine Kelly appeal: what was the case about?

Hundreds of animals were found living in poor conditions when Surrey Police executed a warrant at a farm in Ripley, Surrey, on 9 January 2019, as part of an RSPCA-led investigation.

The multi-agency operation involved many charities and vets. They found herds of ponies, many riddled with worms, living in fields with hazardous metal and broken fencing in thick mud. Two barns were full of animals, many standing on feet of waste and faeces.

Dozens of dogs, some heavily pregnant and others with puppies, were found chained and tethered on the yard, or shut inside tiny cramped cages or makeshift kennels.

A total of 204 animals were discovered at the site. Three were put down at the scene and 201 were taken into charity care, including 129 horses and donkeys, 59 dogs, five goats, four chickens, three alpacas and a duck.

Despite urgent veterinary treatment, 14 horses died or were put to sleep on veterinary advice.

Two dogs and one goat had to be put down, and one chicken and one duck also died. Twenty foals were subsequently born in charity care, although two were stillborn, as well as six goat kids, one alpaca and seven surviving puppies.

“More than 100 people from different agencies spent more than 12 hours assessing the animals, rounding them up and moving them to vets and rescue centres. It’s one of the biggest animal welfare operations ever in the UK,” said RSPCA special operations unit case officer Kirsty Withnall, who coordinated the rescue mission and led the investigation.

“We had no idea what the conditions would be like until we stepped through the gates but we had a plan in place that would allow us to remove a large number of animals on the day, although we hoped that wouldn’t be necessary. But we were left shocked at the conditions these poor animals had been kept in.”

You might also be interested in:

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

‘Devastating cruelty’: suspended sentence for woman who neglected more than 100 horses and other animals

Treatment in prison will be better than the care you gave animals, jailed pensioner told in horror farm sentencing

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A new joined-up approach would improve enforcement of animal welfare law and licensing activities, it is believed.

Representatives from the British Horse Society (BHS), World Horse Welfare, the RSPCA, the National Equine Welfare Council, and vets, police and MPs, were among those to attend a round-table discussion at the House of Commons, organised by the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare (APGAW) on 28 March. The organisations discussed how to improve the current enforcement system, including licensing of activities involving animals.

It was agreed that legislation can do “little to improve welfare for animals without effective enforcement”, and although there are some “excellent examples of positive results for animal welfare”, it is not always protected in the “most efficient or effective way”. The APGAW’s report, Improving the Effectiveness of Animal Welfare Enforcement, identified concerns with the current enforcement system and suggested that a “new model” is needed.

“There is not much evidence of joint working, and there are limited resources, inconsistent expertise and lack of training,” said APGAW policy advisor Marisa Heath, who called for the government to make it a legal requirement for local authorities to use “dedicated animal welfare officers”, who could be shared regionally.

“We think there should be – at least – regional intelligence sharing and an annual national animal welfare meeting, with two to three regional meetings a year, so all officers are using the most up-to-date information and approaches.”

World Horse Welfare chief executive Roly Owers said “valuable intelligence from the ground is being missed”, as people do not know who to report welfare concerns to, as there is no single point of contact.

“We need to make best use of what we already have, and this includes the authorities acting upon informed intelligence provided by welfare organisations as this will help join the dots between animal welfare failings and linked criminal activities,” he said.

“Local authorities, the police and animal welfare organisations must work more closely together, and we believe this can only happen in areas where there are dedicated, well-trained regional animal welfare officers.”

On licensing, BHS chief operating officer Sarah Phillips told H&H that “while in the main the legislation in place is comprehensive”, the way local authorities implement it can cause “frustration and confusion”.

“This is because the implementation can be inconsistent or misinterpreted. The BHS supports the proposed new model as it will enable more robust enforcement and ultimately better animal welfare,” she said.

“To represent riding schools and to inform the council of the challenges the BHS has formed a primary authority partnership. The advice will set out how the guidance should be applied, and the local authorities should then follow it. This has been a positive step and we hope that these conversations will continue to develop and improve the legislation and processes in place.”

Following this round table the APGAW is expected to review the information discussed to pull together a plan for the way forward.

You might also be interested in:

Government ‘reluctance’ blamed for lack of animal welfare enforcement

‘Frustrating and inconsistent’ rules: hope for change for riding schools

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A farrier who struck a horse nine times with a hammer during a “barbaric, unprovoked and prolonged attack” has been banned from keeping and working with animals for 10 years.

Scott Manson, 34, of Whitecross Cottages, Bridstow, Ross on Wye, was sentenced at Cheltenham Magistrates’ Court on 20 March, having pleaded guilty to animal cruelty at an earlier hearing following an investigation and prosecution by the RSPCA.

The court heard that on 1 April 2022, Manson lost his temper while shoeing a client’s horse and used his hammer to repeatedly strike him. Manson hit the horse, who was tied up, nine times during the “prolonged attack” that lasted six and a half minutes.

An RSPCA spokesman said Manson initially claimed the horse had broken his hammer in a picture message sent to the owner, but wondering why the usually “docile” horse would have reacted in such a way, the owner decided to view the yard CCTV.

“The footage showed Manson adopting an aggressive stance, and striking out with his hammer in his hand at the horse’s front legs,” said the spokesman.

*Warning: upsetting footage below*

“Upon checking the horse, the owner could see his right front leg was bigger than usual and there were various marks on both front legs and around the shin area. The hair had also been taken off and the shin exposed.”

Solicitor Lindi Meyer represented the RSPCA in court and described what the specialist equine vet concluded in a report having viewed the footage.

“[Manson] repeatedly beat the horse around the forelimbs where there is very little in the way of soft tissue covering and as such the blows were almost directly to the bone. This would have been incredibly painful for the horse and the farrier is very fortunate not to have caused fractures of any of the limbs,” she said.

“The horse was hit nine times viciously in a six-and-a-half-minute video attack which left it with soft tissue swellings and cuts to the limbs. The attack was unprovoked, unacceptable and completely unnecessary and has caused this horse to suffer from both physical and psychological harm.”

Ms Meyer added that “the abuse falls far below” what is expected of a human dealing with horses, “let alone a professional farrier who has been entrusted by the owners to take care of the horse”.

“At no point was the farrier trying to teach the horse to stand still, pick its feet up or any other action. The actions were simply to beat the horse out of anger, a short temper, or frustration,” she said.

“Whatever the reason, the actions were so barbaric and cruel that the farrier broke the head off a hammer on to the sensitive areas of the front limbs of the horse.”

The court also heard that following the incident, the horse was reluctant for his owners to touch or brush his legs and when a new farrier came out the gelding was given sedatives from the vet to keep him calm on two occasions. He was also reluctant to go in his stable and was wary of people for a time, but is now “back to normal”.

In mitigation it was said Manson is remorseful, and that he was stressed and was visiting his dying mother in Scotland twice a week at the time.

Manson was given a 12-week suspended prison sentence and a 10-year animal ban, including working with animals, which he cannot appeal for the full 10 years.

He was ordered to carry out 150 hours’ unpaid work and 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days. He must pay £400 costs and a £128 victim surcharge.

A FRC spokesman told H&H the council is aware of the criminal conviction of Manson.

“The conviction shall be subject to the statutory provisions of the council; it would, therefore, not be appropriate for the council to make any comment at this time.”

You might also be interested in:

Suspension for farrier who harassed girlfriend and threw dog out of car

“The dog suffered a fracture of the pelvis and subsequently died; Mr Manson described the incident as an unfortunate accident”

Man sentenced after filly found so emaciated she could barely stand

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The owner of a filly who became so emaciated she could barely stand, and later had to be put down, told a court he had done nothing wrong.

George Turner, 37, of Broad Balk Lane, York, denied causing unnecessary suffering and failing to meet the needs of the thoroughbred-type filly, but was found guilty of both offences after a trial at York Magistrates Court on 12 and 14 December.

An RSPCA spokesman said the charity was contacted by a member of the public, who provided pictures of the horse’s emaciated condition.

The court heard RSPCA inspector Alice Cooper, a World Horse Welfare representative, a vet and two police officers attended Turner’s field in Norton-Le-Clay on 23 November 2020. When Turner arrived, he confirmed that the filly and four other thoroughbred-type horses belonged to him.

In her evidence to the court, Ms Cooper said the filly was “very thin”.

“Her spine was prominent and protruded like a ridge along her back, and the bones around her back end looked sharp and pointy. Her demeanour seemed very subdued, and she stood with her head bowed. When walking she appeared slow and quite weak,” she said.

The young horse was also found to be suffering from “extensive” rainscald, and did not have any shelter. The vet confirmed she was suffering and she was seized by the police.

The RSPCA spokesman said when the transport arrived, she was so weak that she collapsed as she stepped on to the trailer and had to be supported back to her feet, with a strap placed around her. She was taken to a specialist equine hospital for treatment, then on to a boarding establishment, and most days she had to be “assisted to stand up”.

“Her condition then sadly deteriorated even further and vets made the decision to put her down on humane grounds to prevent further suffering,” said the spokesman.

“A post mortem revealed she had an emaciated body condition, extensive ulceration of the stomach, which may have been predisposed by a lack of adequate food, and a heavy worm burden.”

The vet told the court it was her professional opinion that it would have taken a minimum of six weeks for the filly to become emaciated and that she had been caused to suffer unnecessarily for at least two.

“The clinical examination of this horse showed an animal that was in extremely poor condition and was very obviously sick and in need of veterinary attention,” she said.

“The horse was very dull and weak and it would have been obvious to even a layperson that she was in extremely poor body condition and emaciated. These factors were chronic in nature and a responsible, reasonable and caring horse owner would have recognised that the horse was failing to thrive and was becoming emaciated.”

The vet added that the forage provided in the field was not enough to provide all the horses with their daily nutritional requirements.

“The filly may have experienced competition for food and as such should have been provided with ad-lib food, and parasite control and veterinary care,” she said.

The court heard that Ms Cooper made repeated attempts to contact Turner to interview him about the filly, but was told he was a “busy man”. In January 2021 a solicitor contacted the RSPCA to arrange an interview for Turner, but it never went ahead and Turner represented himself in court.

During the trial Turner stated he “had not done anything wrong” and that he did not want to be disqualified from keeping equines as “he had knowledge of horses and had been successful in raising them in the past”. In mitigation he said he had financial difficulties, but did not produce any details to corroborate his circumstances.

At the sentencing hearing on 10 January he was given an 18-week custodial sentence, suspended for 12 months. He was banned from keeping equines for 10 years and ordered to pay £1,928 costs and a £128 victim surcharge. The court issued a deprivation order for Turner’s remaining four horses.

“This was a very distressing case and we would like to thank World Horse Welfare and other partner agencies for their assistance, as well as the members of the public who reported their concerns about this young horse to us,” said RSPCA chief inspector Justin Le Masurier.

“A responsible owner would have intervened and provided their animal with veterinary attention long before they had got into such an appalling state. This didn’t happen and sadly this filly suffered unnecessarily for a long time as a result of Mr Turner’s neglect.”

You might also be interested in:

Fears rise in ‘unwanted’ horses will overwhelm charities this winter

Prison for grand prix rider who was ‘cavalier and arrogant’ as horses suffered

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A stallion suffering with an “ulcerated and maggot-infested” leg injury has been put down after his owner failed to get him treatment.

William Byrne, 47, of Eastbourne Close, Preston, denied causing unnecessary suffering and failing to meet the needs of cob Tiny, but was found guilty of the two charges when he appeared at Blackpool Magistrates’ Court on 16 November.

The RSPCA was called in September 2021 after concerns were raised about a horse at a property in Mill Lane.

“On discovering the pony had a severe leg condition, police and vets were called and an investigation began. Tiny was transported to World Horse Welfare to undergo emergency treatment, but sadly despite the vets’ best efforts, Tiny had to be put down to end his suffering,” said an RSPCA spokesman.

The vet’s witness statement said that Tiny had a “known condition that had been diagnosed a year previously”, but although he had received some veterinary treatment, “further examination was denied by Byrne, and almost three months later the horse was still suffering.”

The statement added that Tiny’s legs were “ulcerated in areas, bleeding and inflamed, and there was a secondary bacterial infection present”.

“The right hind limb also had a maggot infestation, which would have also caused further distress,” it read.

“In my opinion, the owner did not act in the best interests of the welfare of this horse. A responsible, caring owner would have sought adequate veterinary care.”

In mitigation Byrne cited “incompetent care rather than deliberate neglect”.

He was sentenced to 18 weeks in prison, suspended for 12 months, and disqualified from owning horses for 10 years. He was also given a daily curfew for 12 weeks, between 7pm and 7am, and ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £128.

RSPCA chief inspector Rob Melloy said it was a “very sad case”.

“We were so sad that Tiny couldn’t be saved. If he had received the appropriate treatment sooner, the outcome might have been different for him, but sadly, Mr Byrne failed to get him the veterinary care he so obviously and desperately needed,” he said.

“It’s really upsetting for us at the RSPCA, our colleagues at World Horse Welfare and the vets, who all collectively tried as hard as we could to save him.”

You might also be interested in:

Woman jailed as 12 horses rescued from ‘heartbreaking’ conditions and colt put put down

RSPCA ‘commended’ after grand prix rider convicted on equine welfare charges

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A woman has been sent to prison for keeping 13 horses in “heartbreaking conditions”, one of whom had to be put down.

Davina Leedham, 62, of no fixed abode, was sentenced at Lincoln Magistrates’ Court on 25 October, following a trial in her absence in July. She was convicted of causing unnecessary suffering to 12 horses and ponies by failing to address their poor condition and failing to seek veterinary care for a gelding’s leg wound. She was also found guilty of failing to meet the needs of three other horses.

An arrest warrant without bail was issued following the trial and she was arrested last month, and held in custody.

In July 2019 RSPCA inspectors and officers from Bransby Horses attended a location in Branston Fen, Bardney, following concerns raised by the police, who were in the area dealing with an unrelated matter. A vet was also in attendance.

An RSPCA spokesman said a large number of horses were found, many in poor condition.

“Many of those found outside were kept in areas where there was little to no grass available in any of the enclosures and there was no shelter,” said the spokesman.

“Inside a barn were three penned areas housing two ponies and a horse. The first small enclosure housed a chestnut pony in poor condition, with spine and pelvis clearly visible and hooves overgrown. The pen was very small and was constructed from a combination of metal gates and wooden pallets, measuring approximately eight feet by eight feet.”

Further into the barn a bay horse was found in a slightly larger enclosure with six-feet high fencing, “giving the appearance of a cage”. The horse’s ribs and spine were “clearly visible”, its hooves were overgrown and it was weaving its head from side to side. Another horse had a wound on its quarters that “should have been attended and treated”.

“Sadly one young colt was in so much discomfort and pain due to persistent lameness an independent vet advised he should be put down on welfare grounds to prevent him suffering further,” said the spokesman.

RSPCA inspector Kate Burris said the conditions the horses were being kept in were “unacceptable”, with “so many of them in such poor condition”.“It was heartbreaking,” she said.

“We are so grateful to Bransby for taking on such a large number of horses and I am so pleased that they have all thrived since being in their care.”

In mitigation Leedham said she had failed to attend the trial as her mother had been ill and that one horse, Cracker, had been under vet treatment.

She was sentenced to 20 weeks’ immediate custody, banned from keeping all animals for 10 years and ordered to pay £500 costs.

“We were able to provide the specialist care and attention these horses needed thanks to the fantastic support we receive from the public and we thank them unreservedly – it doesn’t bear thinking what would have happened were it not for charities like us and the RSPCA,” said Bransby welfare manager Rachel Jenkinson.

“Following a long road the horses have recovered well but the trauma they endured cannot be ignored. We would urge anyone who is struggling to care for their horses or who knows someone who is, to please call our welfare hotline. We are here to help and will do everything in our power to prevent a situation such as this happening again.

“Keeping horses is a responsibility that should not be taken lightly.”

Contact the Bransby welfare hotline on 01327 787369.

You might also be interested in:

RSPCA ‘commended’ after grand prix rider convicted on equine welfare charges

Mare ‘aggressively beaten’ after collapsing on road to be rehomed: men sentenced

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Two men seen “aggressively” kicking a mare in the head and shouting at her after she collapsed while pulling a cart, have been sentenced.

Keiran Ashley Hodges, 39, of Cowen Close, Crewkerne and Haron Reginald Cooper, 27, of Furland Road, Crewkerne, were sentenced at Yeovil Magistrates Court on 4 October. At an earlier hearing the pair were found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a piebald cob mare, named Dy, by overexerting her leading to exhaustion, using excessive force, and inflicting physical violence.

The RSPCA was contacted by police on 2 April 2021 after concerns were raised by a member of the public, who had seen Cooper and Hodges with the mare and cart on the B3168 Ilminster to Curry Rivel Road, in Somerset.

The witness, who was driving past at the time, said she saw the men pulling Dy from side to side “very aggressively” by her bridle.

“From owning horses myself, I knew from the body language of the horse that she was traumatised. The horse’s feet were planted firmly on the floor, her legs were straight and her head was positioned to the sky and her eyes were bulging. She looked totally exhausted and appeared like she would not move another step,” she said.

“I pulled my car to the side of the road and watched in horror as these two men beat this poor horse. Both were pulling at her trying to get her to move and both were hitting her and were very angry. They were shouting at her while they were hitting her with their hands.”

The witness said she saw Dy rear up then collapse onto her right side.

“The horse stayed on the road, and didn’t move nor did she return to her feet. Both males started to kick her really hard in the body and head while screaming aggressively at her to get up,” she said.

An RSPCA spokesman said Dy was found to have a cut between her front legs and another deeper cut on her left elbow. She had abrasions on the corners of her mouth, bruising on her gums and a swelling over her ribs on her right side.

An equine vet examined Dy and found her injuries to be consistent with falling to the ground, “rough rein handling”, and bruising from the shaft of the cart.

In mitigation for Cooper, it was said this was “not a premeditated incident and was relatively short” and that he “did not anticipate that the horse would have behaved as she did”. For Hodges, it was said it was not his horse and “he doesn’t know much at all about horses”.

Cooper was disqualified from keeping all equines for 10 years, and cannot appeal this for five years. He must carry out 300 hours of unpaid work and 30 rehabilitation activity requirement days, and pay costs of £800, plus a £95 victim surcharge.

Hodges was banned from keeping equines for five years and cannot appeal this for three years. He must carry our five rehabilitation activity requirement days, pay a £180 fine and a £95 victim surcharge.

The court deprived Cooper of the ownership of Dy, who has been cared for by the RSPCA since she was seized in April last year. She can now be rehomed by the charity.

You might also be interested in:

Man jailed: foals found ‘in a heap on the floor’ while other horses left to suffer

Victims of horrific cruelty have a second chance of a life worth living

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Six horses – including one being kept in a horsebox on a scrap yard with no food or water – have been rescued as part of a distressing welfare case where a dead kitten and the decomposing body of a puppy were found by RSPCA inspectors.

John (Jason) Evans, 43, and Lisa Evans, 35, both of Pedmore Road, Brierley Hill, Birmingham, were sentenced at Coventry Magistrates’ Court on 12 September. In April the pair had pleaded guilty to charges under the Animal Welfare Act relating to six horses (of which three were foals), a donkey, 18 dogs, and three cats.

West Midlands Police called the RSPCA to the couple’s property on 29 July 2021 owing to concerns for the welfare of the animals. When RSPCA inspectors arrived at around 9pm they had to use head torches to search for the animals and discovered the three foals curled up together “in a heap” on the floor.

RSPCA inspector Jack, who attended the property, said the enclosure was too small for the number of animals and there was no hay or food available.

“The floor was completely sodden with a large build up of faeces and the roof wasn’t large enough to cover the animals inside. This was compounded by the numerous hazards dotted around the enclosure including gates and ladders on the floor,” he said.

Another pen contained a horse whose ribs and hips were “clearly visible”. No food or water was available, the floor was layered with faeces, and the only access to the enclosure had been blocked with car doors and an engine, pallets, and other large objects, indicating it had not been opened “for a long time”.

A horsebox sat in a scrap yard behind the property was found to contain a horse, who was “caked in faeces” around his legs and feet. His ribs and hips were also showing and he had no food or water. A container was found to contain another horse in poor condition.

The inspectors also discovered two kittens alongside a dead kitten, and the skull of another. Two lurchers were found in poor bodily condition, tethered to kennels with no food, water or bedding and six more dogs were found in another kennel. The decomposing body of a dead puppy was found in a transit van, and more dogs were found in crates and a shipping container.

Inspector Alderson said the case was “one of the worst” animal welfare situations he had ever been faced with.

In mitigation it was heard that the couple’s actions “were not deliberate” but down to “incompetent care”.

The horses and the donkey survived; some were taken into the care of the RSPCA and others went to other welfare charities for rehoming or sanctuary.

John Evans was sentenced to 16 weeks in prison. Lisa Evans was sentenced to 12 weeks imprisonment, suspended for 12 months. She must also do 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days with a critical thinking programme. The pair were both banned from keeping animals for life, which cannot be appealed for 10 years. They each must pay £500 costs and a £128 victim surcharge.

You might also be interested in:

Emaciated horse found dead and frozen in the snow, with fresh hay out of his reach

Victims of horrific cruelty have a second chance of a life worth living

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Government “reluctance” to provide adequate resources means England does not have enough officers to effectively enforce animal welfare legislation.

The claim comes in a new cross-party Parliamentary group report into the effectiveness of animal welfare enforcement, which calls for an end to the “postcode lottery” across the country.

The group is concerned that cost-of-living pressures “could lead to the suffering of countless animals” if action is not taken.

“This landmark report suggests there’s a real postcode lottery in terms of animal welfare enforcement services across England – with nearly half having no dedicated officers,” said group co-chair Giles Watling MP, adding that much can be done to improve collaboration.

“We are in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis – and that could have big consequences for animals and enforcement bodies trying to protect them.”

The report warns that there has been a “real lack of consistency” in enforcement; 47% of councils in England have no dedicated animal welfare officers. For the 53% that do, it is unclear whether most of their time is spent on enforcing or ensuring compliance with animal welfare legislation, and some may be focused on farm animals or dogs only.

The report states that although there are statutory requirements under the Animal Health Act 1981, there is a “lack of clear and adequate provision to actually enforce broader animal welfare legislation”.

“This is likely to have been because of a reluctance of the Government to provide the additional resources required at the time as post-2006 – when the Animal Welfare Act was created – we saw the beginning of cuts to local government budgets,” it states.

“Owing to this, local authorities have approached the issue of animal welfare in different ways and subsequently we have huge inconsistency between geographical areas.”

It adds that the likelihood of action on animal welfare issues “depends on too many variables including the attitude and resources of the body in question”.

It notes there are some examples of good practice, but “many examples of very poor practice” where no welfare work is undertaken, or if it is, it is mainly in relation to licensing and is “of poor quality”.

“This has not only been negative for animal welfare, it has had a negative impact on pet businesses when it comes to animal activity licensing,” it adds.

The report also points to the wider picture, highlighting that “animal abuse or neglect does not exist in isolation”. It can be linked to social issues, such as domestic and child abuse, trafficking or modern slavery, financial exploitation and personal issues like poor mental health, which is why it is “increasingly important” these are tackled collectively.

This is not the first damning report into this legislation and how it is enforced. H&H reported on a review into the effectiveness of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 by an Environment Food and Rural Affairs Committee in 2016 (news, 24 November 2016). In 2021, 50 welfare charities created a report, featuring 40 recommendations, including the Government ensures that enforcement is a statutory obligation in any new laws. “Legislation is a glorified and costly piece of paper without enforcement, and a wasted piece of paper if it doesn’t deliver its objectives”, it said (news, 20 May 2021).

It begs the question of what makes this research different.

The group responsible for this new report said it has sought to avoid duplicating work and seeks to focus its limited resources on solutions.

It states that there are four key barriers: limited resources, inconsistency, lack of training/experience and lack of knowledge-sharing. What is needed is: experienced and capable inspectors, shared knowledge and resources, ongoing, quality training, and addressing issues around seizure of animals.

It urges the Government to consider a “level of funding” that would help local authorities organise shared services, undergo training and crack down on the “really serious offences that are often national level and linked to organised crime”.

It called for authorities to be required to have access to dedicated animal welfare officers, to enforce the law, and for regional animal welfare forums, led by the dedicated officers, and a national animal welfare board.

The group also wants a central fund to be considered, which could be used to target large-scale animal welfare breaches.

Roly Owers, chief executive of World Horse Welfare which assisted with the report, alongside RSPCA and the Local Government Animal Welfare Group, stressed the need for collaboration.

“Although there’s still a way to go, real progress is being made with improving legislation around animal welfare and its impact on horses, but it will be wasted if not enforced,” he said.

“To be effective, enforcement needs a major rethink and will require both well-trained, dedicated, officers who could be shared across local authority boundaries to limit the costs, and welfare charities to provide the necessary training and support.

“Only with a collaborative approach will we see real, tangible benefits for animal welfare.”

A Defra spokesperson told H&H: “The UK has amongst the highest standards of animal welfare in the world, and along with local councils, our [Animal Plant and Health Agency] inspectors ensure animal health and welfare standards are being met and appropriate action is taken against anyone who breaks the law.

“All animals, whichever system they are kept in, are protected by comprehensive and robust animal health, welfare and environmental legislation – and we are currently developing an animal health and welfare pathway, which will further promote the production of healthier, higher welfare animals.”

You might also be interested in:

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Charities unite to urge Government to act on welfare — but concerns about Hunting Act point *H&H Plus*

Damning report into animal welfare legislation published

"It is unacceptable that in a modern society no state organisation is responsible for animal welfare"

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A couple who ignored their ban on keeping equines were given suspended prison sentences after 19 ponies – including one in “uncontrollable pain” – were found in their care.

Stanley Strelley, 51, and his wife Heather, 51, of Bron Gwendraeth, Kidwelly, admitted two animal welfare offences and breaching a five-year disqualification order when they appeared before Llanelli magistrates in January. The couple were sentenced at the same court on Thursday (10 February).

Magistrates heard that RSPCA inspector Keith Hogben and World Horse Welfare field officer Tony Evans visited the couple at a farm in Trimsaran Road, Kidwelly, on 28 May, 2021, following reports of a lame pony and a breach of ban offence.

A total of 13 section A Welsh ponies were found at the property, along with a further six in a field outside. The majority of those stabled were showing stress-induced behaviours and a bay mare called Maia, who was reluctant to move, was found to be suffering from untreated laminitis.

The couple denied the ponies belonged to them and instead gave inspector Hogben the name of a woman, with two different surnames, who they claimed was the owner. They also told him that Maia had seen a vet six to eight weeks previously.

Mrs Strelley was repeatedly asked for the owner’s contact number, but when it was eventually provided, there was no reply. When the alleged owner eventually spoke to inspector Hogben later that day, she told him that Maia belonged to her and had seen a vet. However, the two veterinary practices, whose names were given to the inspector, said they had never heard of the pony.

A vet visited the farm for the RSPCA later that day and confirmed Maia was lame on all four legs. She added that it was evident the mare was in “uncontrollable pain”, had been suffering unnecessarily for six to eight weeks, and was unlikely to have been seen by a vet or farrier in that time.

The pony was removed that day by police and placed in RSPCA care.

“In this case, I believe much earlier intervention with a veterinarian and a farrier would have prevented ongoing suffering of this mare,” said the vet, in evidence to the court.

“The appearance of the mare’s hooves externally show that she was overdue trimming and this, along with other factors such as breed, stress, diet and increased weight, would have predisposed her to laminitis.

“In my opinion the barn environment was stressful as the majority of the ponies were exhibiting stress-induced behaviours such as cribbing, kicking, snorting and biting. These ponies, including the laminitic mare, were fed ad-lib haylage which, as a source of high starch, is inappropriate for laminitis-prone breeds and a pony currently suffering from the condition.”

Magistrates were told a different woman, whose name was given to inspector Hogben, was not the ponies’ owner. The court heard this woman said Mrs Strelley had been sending her messages, asking her to say the ponies were hers and had offered her money to do so.

The Strelleys continued to deny ownership of all the ponies until 8 June when, via a letter from the solicitor, they admitted they were theirs.

The couple, who were already serving a five-year ban issued on 31 January 2019, were given an additional five-year ban and suspended jail sentences on 10 February.

The two animal welfare offences the pair were charged with were causing unnecessary suffering by failing to ensure a pony received appropriate veterinary and/or farrier care as a consequence of lameness, and that they did not take reasonable steps to ensure ponies’ needs were met, in terms of diet and a suitable living environment that minimised stress.

The mitigation given for their actions was that they loved the ponies too much to give them up, and that they couldn’t seek veterinary treatment because it was likely the vet would know they were banned from keeping equines.

Mrs Strelley was given a 12- and an eight-week prison sentence, to run concurrently, suspended for two years – for breaching the disqualification order and causing unnecessary suffering respectively. She was also ordered to pay costs of £1,000 and a £128 victim surcharge, and was given a 7pm to 7am curfew for four months and must carry out 25 days of rehabilitation activity requirements.

Her husband was given an eight-week prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, for breaching his ban, and ordered to pay the same costs and victim surcharge as his wife. He must also undertake 25 rehabilitation activity requirement days and 200 hours of unpaid work.

Maia has since been rehomed and the remaining ponies are under new ownership.

After the case, inspector Hogben said: “Mr and Mrs Strelley have shown a total disregard for the law and the sentence that was handed out to them when they appeared in court for previous animal welfare offences.

“Unfortunately another pony has now suffered unnecessarily due to Mrs Strelley’s failure to treat a hoof problem that she was fully aware of.

“We are very pleased that Maia made a full recovery after receiving excellent veterinary treatment and rehabilitation by equine professionals.

“We are grateful to our friends at World Horse Welfare, in particular field officer Tony Evans, for their support in this case, which is another example of what we can achieve together for animal welfare.”

You might also be interested in:

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A man who punched a police horse with a can of beer has been banned from attending football games for three years.

Peter Mincher, 43, of Lindsay Road, Hartlepool, was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal when he appeared at Bristol Magistrates’ Court on 31 January.

PC Helen du Heaume of Avon & Somerset Police was riding 13-year-old gelding Blaise, with three other mounted officers, at the national league play-off final between Hartlepool United and Torquay United at Ashton Gate Stadium on 20 June 2021.

PC du Heaume told H&H she and her colleagues were clearing the road, moving Hartlepool football fans from the middle of the highway.

“We were riding slowly, without using force, asking people to move out of the road. People had moved to the side and as I rode past, a man took his can of beer and punched Blaise on the side of his face,” she said.

“Blaise spooked and shuffled backwards, but once I put my leg on he moved forward and kept moving the crowd back, so he handled it pretty well. It was a such a volatile situation, even though the crowds were moving back, they were throwing missiles such as cans and flags. One of my colleagues got a flare thrown at her face.”

PC du Heaume said Mincher, who claimed in court that the horses were flighty and he felt like he was protecting himself, was captured striking Blaise on her body camera. The footage was sent to football intelligence officers, who were able to identify and later arrest him.

Blaise, who has been with Avon & Somerset Police for around six years and is one of the force’s most experienced horses, was not injured and PC du Heaume said he had suffered no lasting effects.

“These horses serve the public, they’re so loyal and obedient and it’s just a disgrace that a member of the public thinks that is acceptable. It breaks my heart,” said PC du Heaume, adding that the message to the public is that these incidents will not be tolerated.

‘If we can identify them and get them to court then 100% we will. That’s where the body cam is so helpful, now officers all wear body cameras so with incidents like this it makes it much easier for us to catch and prosecute people.”

Mincher was fined and ordered to pay costs and a victim surcharge totalling £1,215. He was given a three-year football banning order, which means he must not attend games for three years.

PC Tom Williams, one of the force’s football officers, said incidents of disorder had risen nationally this season.

“I’d like to reassure both fans and other members of the public that we continue to work closely with partners, including clubs, to make matches a safe environment for all,” he said.

“There is absolutely no place for any kind of violence in football and we will deal robustly with anyone who engages in such behaviour.”

You might also be interested in:

‘Now I can see the value of horses’: police force’s mounted unit saved

‘No excuse’: police investigating after driver drove at and abused riders

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A couple have been told had it not been for their age and medical needs, they would have been going “straight to prison” for allowing ponies to suffer in “barbaric” conditions “all their lives”.

Jack Carter, 75, and his wife Barabara, 72, of Bank Bridge, Tarleton, Lancashire, who bred, showed, and kept horses for 60 years, pleaded guilty to three animal welfare offences, when they appeared at Lancashire Magistrates’ Court on 20 January.

The pair admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to four Welsh ponies by failing to provide “adequate or any” hoof care, adequate or any treatment for thrush and dermatitis, and confining the ponies in a “filthy unsanitary” environment for a prolonged period resulting in “severe prolonged psychological suffering”.

They also admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to a Welsh section A mare by providing inadequate dental care leading to ulceration to her mouth and trauma to her tongue, and failing to provide veterinary treatment to another mare’s “painful” eye condition.

An RSPCA spokesman said the charity was called in March 2021 to investigate the premises after a member of the public raised concerns about the welfare of a pony believed to be in the Carters’ care. When RSPCA inspector Vicki McDonald visited on 22 March she could see a “run-down” stable block behind the couple’s house but was unable to access this without permission.

In the following days Ms McDonald made several attempts to contact the Carters by telephone to arrange a visit, but on a number of occasions Mr Carter messaged back and said he was unable to show the inspector around the property, citing “various reasons”, or failed to make contact with her.

Ms McDonald was concerned Mr Carter was avoiding a visit so she returned to the area to view the stable from a nearby public footpath and saw that a green sheet and wire mesh now covered the doorway of the “dilapidated” stable she had seen on her first visit. She believed there was a pony inside, who Mr Carter was “trying to hide” so Ms McDonald arranged a formal visit to the property with Lancashire Police on 7 April.

During the visit Ms McDonald asked to see inside the stable at the back of the house and Mr Carter “reluctantly” agreed. Ms McDonald told the court of her “shock” at what she found in that building and three other “ramshackle” stables.

“Inside the first stable I found a grey pony in horrendous environmental and physical condition. I had never seen anything like it in my entire career,” Ms McDonald said.

“The pony was standing on top of deep rotting litter that had built up so much, it reached the top of the stable door. The pony was unable to fully stand up and its back protruded through a hole in the stable roof. In addition I saw the pony had severely overgrown feet beyond anything I had seen before. The hooves extended out and corkscrewed. Further rotting litter was piled up in front of the stable, preventing the stable door from opening.”

Ms McDonald said the next stable contained a chestnut pony, and across from that box were two more grey ponies.

“The grey ponies’ behaviour was particularly disturbing. They seemed very stressed and erratic. I noticed that all the ponies had matting to their coats. They also had patches of sore skin, most likely from having no option but to lie in their own filth,” she said.

“To say the physical and environmental conditions of these ponies was shocking is a gross understatement. They also stood on deep rotting litter piled as high as the stable doors inside and also in front of the doors, preventing any possibility of the doors opening. They all had horrendously overgrown hooves that had started to corkscrew. There was very little room for them to move around or even stand normally. Their backs reached the stable roofs.

“It was obvious that none of these ponies had been out of their stables or been seen by a farrier for a very considerable amount of time, if at all. It was my opinion that based on what I had seen, it was highly possible that these ponies had been in these stables all their lives.”

An independent vet attended but advised that the four ponies, thought to be aged between six and seven years old, should be put down to “end their suffering”. She noted in her report that the ponies were neglected in “every aspect of basic requirement”, and the conditions they were kept in were “extremely barbaric”.

“The severe lack of care and level of suffering endured by these ponies was prolonged, wholly avoidable and totally inexcusable. It was heartbreaking to find them in such a neglectful state and for them, after such an awful life, to be beyond saving,” said Ms McDonald.

“These ponies were kept stabled within a few feet of the back door to the Carters’ home address. They would have seen them daily and their plight would have been ignored daily. The extreme level of neglect I witnessed in this case is unlikely to ever be surpassed and will remain with me.

“They were imprisoned in cramped, ramshackle and rotting conditions, forced to live and lie amongst their own faecal matter. They could not stand naturally, they could not behave naturally, graze, exercise or socialise, they were not provided with any of the necessary veterinary or farrier care they urgently required and they could not escape their confines or be accessed in an emergency. In my opinion the neglect of these ponies was physically, environmentally and psychologically cruel and this had clearly been their existence for a considerable period of time.”

Mr Carter told the RSPCA the couple had more ponies stables a short walk away in Liverpool Road and when the charity visited five were found. They had access to food and water but were in a “neglected state” and had a “range” of health issues.

The ponies were signed over into the care of the RSPCA and taken for an emergency veterinary examination. Four were found to be suffering and put down. The remaining pony will be rehabilitated and rehomed.

PC Sean Dalby, a wildlife officer for Lancashire Police, said it was a “shocking case of needless cruelty” that should not have happened.

Mr and Mrs Carter were banned from keeping animals for life. They were sentenced to 12 weeks’ imprisonment, suspended for two years. They were ordered to pay £500 costs each.

During sentencing, the magistrates heard the Carters had been given the opportunity to work with the RSPCA on previous occasions but they did not seek that help. The presiding magistrate said the case was “extremely distressing.

“This crosses the custody threshold for the reason of prolonged ill-treatment and neglect which resulted in a high level of suffering. The only reason the sentence was suspended is to take into account the defendants’ medical needs and age. If it was not for these factors you would be going straight to prison,” he said.

PC Sean Dalby, a wildlife officer for Lancashire Police, said it was a “shocking case of needless cruelty” that should not have happened.

“I am happy the court took the matter so seriously and the south rural task force will continue to investigate and target animal cruelty offenders. We would like to thank the RSPCA with this case and will continue to support them,” he said.

You might also be interested in:

Woman who ran beach donkey business for 30 years banned from keeping animals

Filly – and companion – taken to safety after mare killed on dual carriageway

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A woman who ran a beach donkey business for 30 years has been sentenced after 25 equines were found living in a “neglected state”, despite the fact over £22,000 had been raised to help care for them.

Licensed donkey operator Margarite Geraldine Gibson, 77, of Netherby Close, Sleights, Whitby, who ran Whitby Donkeys on the local beach in Yorkshire, pleaded guilty to four offences under the Animal Welfare Act when she appeared at Scarborough Magistrates’ Court on 12 January.

On 24 February 2021 the RSPCA and staff from the Donkey Sanctuary attended the site at Netherby Close following concerns raised by a member of the public about the welfare of a number of equines in Gibson’s care.

RSPCA inspector Claire Little found 13 donkeys, 11 ponies and one mule in a paddock that had “many hazards”. Other mules, donkeys and ponies were “crowded together” in stables with little or no access to forage or water.

“It was apparent when looking at the stables and sheds that there was no hay and water available to the animals inside,” said Ms Little.

“There were multiple donkeys in the barn/lean-to area at the rear of the stables. The ground appeared to comprise a thick layer of straw and faeces. There was a water butt outside that appeared to be collecting rainwater. This water was not available to the animals, but they were seen straining to access it.”

Ms Little added that there were three “overcrowded” stables in a state of disrepair, held together by rope or baler twine, with wet deep-litter bedding, containing multiple animals.

“Inside the stables a number of donkeys were found to be underweight with their spines and pelvises clearly visible, while others had poor coats with lice and scabs visible on their bodies,” said an RSPCA spokesman.

“Some had other health concerns such as lameness and dental issues. Others had long overgrown hooves so were struggling to walk and others had thrush, which was so severe it was causing their feet to bleed.”

The spokesman said Gibson told Ms Little that she had struggled with veterinary care and farrier treatment owing to Covid-19. This caused her to struggle financially and a GoFundMe had previously raised £22,000. Gibson said she still had some of that money but was “trying to make it last”.

“She was offered relinquishment as an option to reduce the number of animals in her care and related costs, but declined the offer,” the spokesman said, adding that the charity advised Gibson she would need veterinary and farriery care for the equines and she was “given a chance” to improve their care and living conditions.

“Further ongoing support and help was offered but it soon became clear further intervention was needed. On a return visit it was found that no improvements had been made and there was no hay or water for the stabled donkeys and ponies. Gibson signed over 25 equines into the care of the RSPCA and the Donkey Sanctuary.”

The court heard the RSPCA, Donkey Sanctuary and World Horse Welfare had been involved with the defendant since 2016 on an “ongoing basis” in an effort to help her improve the welfare of her equids.

Gibson’s solicitor added that it was “a sad end to a very long history of working with equines for over 60 years and she had run a donkey ride business on her local beach for 30 years”.

In mitigation, the defendant’s age was taken into consideration.

She was banned from keeping animals for life and given a 14-week prison sentence, suspended for two years. She was also ordered to pay £250 costs and a £128 victim surcharge.

The spokesman said the equids are “recovering well” at the RSPCA Fell Edge centre and the Donkey Sanctuary, and will be rehomed soon.

“We often work with partner charities to tackle animal welfare issues and we are so grateful to the Donkey Sanctuary for all their wonderful work and support in this matter. It is heartening to see how well the animals now look and one went on to have a gorgeous foal too,” said Ms Little.

Hannah Bryer, head of welfare at the Donkey Sanctuary, added that in this case the needs of the animals “far outstripped” what the owner was able to provide for them.

“The situation was complex, and the welfare issues were further compounded by the large numbers of equines kept on a small site,” she said.

“Without this intervention, their suffering would have only continued. Thanks to our supporters, we have been able to provide all the donkeys and mules with a safe and secure future, either on our rehoming scheme or at one of our sanctuaries.”

You might also be interested in:

‘Seeking help would have prevented this’: message to struggling owners after suffering donkeys rescued

Mule put down and donkeys rescued after mother and son ignored welfare advice

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The owner of a mare who is believed to have died from hypothermia after she was left in “horrendous” weather conditions, underweight and without a rug, has been jailed.

Victoria Young, 42, of Oak Bank, Alveley, Shropshire, pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to a mare called Diamond by failing to address the cause of her poor body condition and weight loss and was sentenced at Kidderminster Magistrates’ Court on 25 November.

The RSPCA was contacted in late December 2020 when Diamond’s body was discovered by a member of the public at a site on an unnamed lane in the Alveley area of Bridgnorth.

A spokesman for the charity said Diamond had been kept at the site since mid-2020, at which time she was in good body condition. But Young failed to investigate her deteriorating condition and weight loss in the months that followed, which vets believe caused the mare to suffer from late October until her death on 29 December.

A veterinary testimony suggested Diamond’s condition declined owing to Young’s failure to provide a suitable diet, and an expert witness report provided to the court noted a lack of available grazing at the field and the presence of ragwort.

“There was a lack of grass growth after October, while hay was only seen in the field on one occasion by witnesses, with no provision of supplementary food,” said the RSPCA spokesman.

“Vets feel the most likely cause of Diamond’s death was hypothermia. She was found without a rug upon her death, despite temperatures frequently falling below zero in Bridgnorth in the weeks preceding, with weather conditions described by witnesses as ‘horrendous’, including ‘snow, rain and terrific winds’.”

RSPCA inspector Thea Kerrison, who investigated, added that Diamond suffered as a consequence of her owner’s failure to investigate her rapidly declining body condition and weight loss.

“Unfortunately, poor Diamond simply didn’t have an appropriate diet – with grazing conditions totally unsuitable, and supplementary food lacking. When her body was found, she wasn’t even wearing a rug, despite the severe weather conditions. Her body was thin and I could see her ribs,” she said.

“Clearly this tragic situation could have been avoided had her owner addressed the causes of this horse’s deteriorating state. This case reminds us what can go wrong when owners do not take their legal obligations to their animals seriously.”

In mitigation the court heard Young was “remorseful and heartbroken” by events. She was also dealing with a family illness during her failure to attend to Diamond.

Young was sentenced to 20 weeks’ imprisonment. She was banned from keeping animals for life and cannot contest this for five years. She was ordered to pay £750 costs and a victim surcharge of £128.

You might also be interested in:

Man filmed ‘repeatedly beating’ pony with pole in supermarket car park

Mother and daughter who ‘loved horses’ allowed group to suffer ‘prolonged neglect’

5 reasons why a subscription to HorseandHound.co.uk makes the perfect last-minute gift

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A man filmed “repeatedly beating” a pony with a plastic pole in a supermarket car park while saying “it’s gotta learn” has been sentenced to 10 weeks’ imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, following an RSPCA prosecution.

John Reid, 31, of Bartholomew Road, Morecambe, was sentenced at Blackpool Magistrates’ Court on 3 November after pleading guilty to causing unnecessary suffering and failing to meet the needs of a yearling pony called Pebbles.

On 10 October 2020 Reid was filmed by a member of the public “repeatedly beating” Pebbles at a supermarket in Westgate, Morecambe. Footage played to the court showed Reid hitting Pebbles at least 15 times with a blue plastic pole while he is heard saying “It’s gotta learn”.

“Onlookers described how they saw Reid hit Pebbles forcefully with his arm raised above his head and he appeared to strike her every few seconds for several minutes,” said an RSPCA spokesman.

Warning: you may find this video distressing

RSPCA inspector Will Lamping launched an investigation and Pebbles was found to be underweight, with prominent shoulders and her backbone and ribs visible. Mr Lamping reported the stable she was being kept in at St John’s Terrace, Morecambe, was not in good condition, covered in faeces, with poisonous ivy growing at the back. She was seen chewing the wood of her stable and had no feed available.

A vet report submitted to the court added the stable had no bedding, the floor was wet and deep in faeces, and there were a number of plastic bags present.

“This environment was completely unsuitable for a horse due to its unsanitary conditions. There was nowhere clean or dry for the horse to rest in comfort, [with nothing] to protect it from the cold, hard stone floor,” read the report.

Pebbles was seized by police and placed into the care of the RSPCA. In mitigation the court heard the conditions Pebbles was being kept in “were only temporary” and Reid was intending to sell her on.

During sentencing magistrates told Reid the offences were “serious” and he was given a five-year ban on keeping equines, which he cannot apply to terminate for three years. He was sentenced to 10 weeks’ imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to pay £200 costs and £128 victim surcharge.

“Reid’s actions caused Pebbles pain, fear and both physical and psychological suffering. She was very young and she required teaching to educate her rather than being reprimanded in such a way. Beating a pony causes fear and pain that can ultimately affect how she learns and interacts with humans going forward,” said Mr Lamping.

Reid transferred ownership of Pebbles to the RSPCA, who will continue her rehabilitation and find her a new home.

You might also be interested in:

Mother and daughter who ‘loved horses’ allowed group to suffer ‘prolonged neglect’

Horses dug out of stables by rescuers in horrific welfare case

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A group of horses suffered a “prolonged level of neglect” at the hands of a mother and daughter who claimed to “love horses”.

Lorraine Potter, 62 and her daughter Toyah Potter, 20, both of Regent Drive, Easingwold, North Yorkshire, were sentenced at York Magistrates’ Court on 8 October, having pleaded guilty to four animal welfare offences at a trial on 13 September.

In March 2020 RSPCA inspector Claire Mitchell attended a field at Sands Lane, Huby, following a request for assistance from World Horse Welfare.

Ms Mitchell said there was no sign of food or water available to the group of six equines and one pony who had broken into a separate area with corrugated metal sheets was found with his head in a bag of food and appeared to be “very hungry”.

“There were also other hazards in the field such as car batteries, a saw and pieces of wood. All of the horses had rugs on so it was not possible to assess their bodily conditions but some of them looked thin even with the rugs on,” said Ms Mitchell.

“The paddock was completely poached and all the horses appeared to be very hungry and were following us around.”

An RSPCA spokesman said a vet and police attended the scene and on examination four of the horses were found to be in a “suffering state”. Gelding Ronin, mares Maggie May and Missy, and elderly gelding Corrie were thin.

“Ronin, a small piebald foal around six to nine months old called Bracken, and Corrie, were suffering from lice infestations. Corrie was also suffering from lack of dental care and Star, a piebald yearling filly, did not have her needs met,” said the spokesman.

Police seized the horses and passed them into the RSPCA’s care and they were taken to a private boarding establishment.

In mitigation the court heard the mother and daughter “loved horses” and had found it “distressing” to accept they had let them down. It was added that they had received threats of intimidation on social media.

Lorraine Potter was banned from keeping equines indefinitely, which cannot be contested for three years. She was made subject to a 12-month community order, to include 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days, and a 16-week curfew in which she will be electronically monitored. She must pay a £90 victim surcharge.

Toyah Potter was banned from keeping equines for five years and cannot contest this for three. She was also given a 12-month conditional discharge and must pay a £21 victim surcharge. Both were ordered to pay £700 costs.

During sentencing, magistrates told the mother the sentence imposed was a “direct alternative to custody”, and the lack of care afforded to the animals was such that the magistrates’ were “satisfied there was a prolonged level of neglect”, adding that the animals were neglected “very badly in her hands”.

In addressing the daughter, magistrates said they had been told she was an animal lover, and while that may be the case it did not allow her to ignore their “clear welfare needs”.

You might also be interested in:

Horses dug out of stables by rescuers in horrific welfare case

Mule put down and donkeys rescued after mother and son ignored welfare advice

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A mule had to be put down owing to untreated dental issues, and two donkeys were rescued from unsuitable conditions, after a mother and son ignored welfare advice.

Susan Alison Shears, 74, of Gowdall, Goole, East Riding of Yorkshire, was found guilty of seven animal welfare offences relating to donkeys Dora and Daisy, and mule Ebony, at a hearing at Beverley Magistrates’ Court on 3 August. At the same hearing her son, John Shears, 39, of Rawcliffe, Goole, pleaded guilty to four offences. They were sentenced on 11 October at Hull Magistrates’ Court.

An RSPCA spokesman said the charity and the Donkey Sanctuary offered to help the pair in 2016, and made multiple visits between 2016 and 2019 during which they advised on actions needed to safeguard the welfare of the animals – but this was “ignored” and the situation “remained unchanged”.

When an RSPCA inspector and a Donkey Sanctuary welfare adviser attended a field at Field Lane, Gowdall, on 13 August 2019, Dora, Daisy and Ebony were found in a field full of ragwort, and littered with barbed wire and fallen wire netting.

“An old, disused work container which the animals had access to was completely unsuitable as a shelter. It was too small and had sharp edges and canvas straps still attached inside which the animals could have become caught on,” said an RSPCA spokesman, adding that all three animals had had overgrown teeth and hooves and were in need of dental and farriery treatment.

“The animals also did not have access to any hard standing within their living environment. It’s important for donkeys to have access to hard standing to protect their feet from wet and muddy conditions and to prevent infections. Their water supply was wholly inadequate and dirty with an accumulation of algae.”

On 19 August 2019 the charities returned to the field with the police, who forced entry using bolt cutters and gave the charities and an independent vet permission to examine the animals.

“Dora was suffering from laminitis and Ebony from ulceration to the soft tissues of her mouth from inadequate dental care that would have caused her discomfort when eating,” said RSPCA inspector Thomas Hutton, who led the investigation.

“The vet advised the animals should be removed from the site as they were either suffering or likely to suffer if they remained.”

Daisy, Dora and Ebony were taken into police possession and passed into the care of the RSPCA. They were transported to a nearby holding base funded by the Donkey Sanctuary, where they received urgent dental and farriery treatment.

“Sadly, Ebony was put to sleep on veterinary advice due to her ongoing suffering from her dental issues. Dora and Daisy have responded well to treatment, but due to their age and ongoing care needs they may need to remain in the Donkey Sanctuary care for the rest of their lives,” said the RSPCA spokesman.

Donkey Sanctuary’s head of welfare Hannah Bryer added: “We had previously attended this location alongside the RSPCA and engaged with the owners regarding Ebony and a donkey. We discussed the changes that needed to be made to ensure the environment was safe and suitable for the animals.

“On a repeat visit, we found Ebony with Daisy and Dora living at the same location that was detrimental to their welfare, it was clear our advice had not been followed.”

In mitigation Susan Shears “blamed others” for the situation, and the court heard John Shears was “remorseful”.

At sentencing, Susan Shears was given a lifetime disqualification from keeping equines, which cannot be appealed for 10 years. She was ordered to pay £3,000 costs. John Shears was banned from keeping equines for 10 years, which cannot be appealed for five, and ordered to pay £700 costs. The pair were each sentenced to 12 weeks’ imprisonment, suspended for 18 months.

The court issued a deprivation order for the ownership of the donkeys to be handed over to the RSPCA. The defendants have 21 days to appeal.

You might also be interested in:

Horses dug out of stables by rescuers in horrific welfare case

‘Landmark day’ for animal welfare as new legislation comes into force

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Horses whose heads touched their stable roofs because they were standing on four feet of muck had to be dug out by rescuers in a “horrendous” welfare case.

Gordon Hamilton Metcalf, 59, and Denise Ann Clark, 48, of Rutland Street, Hetton-le-Hole, were sentenced at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court on 7 October, following a trial on 7 September at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court. The pair were convicted of five offences under the Animal Welfare Act, committed between 15 August and 15 October 2020.

RSPCA inspectors Terri-Ann Fannon and Gemma Lynch, and World Horse Welfare field officer Seema Ritson, discovered 40 neglected horses when they attended a property on Urwin Street, Hetton-le-Hole, Tyne and Wear, on 15 October 2020. Some horses were found in a paddock with mud up to their knees, and there were foals who could “barely move” because of mud up to their chests.

An RSPCA spokesman said many of the horses were confined in areas “significantly contaminated” by faecal matter and they did not have water, hay or clean bedding.

“They did not have a hard standing area to be able to stand out of the mud and several were found with overgrown hooves due to lack of farrier treatment,” he said.

Ms Fannon found four Shetland ponies and two cob-type horses in the “worst conditions she had ever seen”.

“The horses stood on old hay, muck and faeces up to my shoulders, approximately four feet high. There was no access in or out of the stable,” she said.

“The cobs were unable to lift their heads up as the muck was so high, their heads were touching the roof of the stable. They had no food or water. Several of my colleagues spent several hours digging out the horses. A piebald mare had thick matted fur clumped around her hooves. She was of thin body condition and had severely overgrown hooves, which had curled and twisted.”

The RSPCA spokesman added that a piebald horse with severely overgrown hooves was found in a stable that had been nailed shut and had to be prised open with a crowbar. Six Shetland ponies were found standing on two feet of muck and mud, two Shetlands with overgrown hooves were found in a plastic greenhouse that officers had to climb over rubble to reach, and another, who was in thin body condition, was found inside a horsebox in a “suffering state” owing to lameness, and arthritis in her shoulders.

“Despite advising the couple a year earlier that they could not keep horses at the site during winter due to the extreme muddy conditions, no improvements had been made since the previous year apart from a makeshift area of uneven cobble bricks that had been put down which the horses could not stand on,” he said.

The horses and ponies were examined by a vet before being taken into the RSPCA’s care. Of the 40, 12 were found to be suffering with overgrown hooves and 10 were suffering as a result of Metcalf and Clark’s failing to provide adequate nutrition.

Ms Fannon said the case was the worst she had been involved with during her career with the RSPCA.

“I offered to help Mr Metcalf on numerous occasions and none have been taken up,” she said.

“He knowingly kept horses hidden in these conditions for a long period of time. I am pleased we have since been able to find many of the horses new homes.”

In mitigation the court heard the horses had been “dumped” on the defendants and they claimed they had no responsibility during the dates of the offences.

Metcalf was given a lifetime disqualification from keeping all animals, which he cannot contest for 10 years. He was sentenced to 18 weeks’ imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, and must pay £750 costs. Clark was banned from keeping all animals for 10 years and cannot contest this for 10 years. She was fined £180 and must pay £750 costs.

You might also be interested in:

Sarcoid prosecution shows need for vet attention rather than using home remedies

Ban for owner of ‘grossly obese’ horse found more than 100kg overweight

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Animal abusers could face a maximum of five years in prison from today (29 June) in what has been described as a “landmark” day for animal welfare.

The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act, which passed into law in April as reported by H&H, has now come into effect. This means courts will have the flexibility to impose tougher sentences for the worst animal abusers in England and Wales under the Animal Welfare Act. The law brings the countries in line with Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Welfare charities have campaigned for a number of years for increased sentencing and in 2017 the Government pledged to reform the maximum sentence, receiving cross-party support. The Bill was brought forward by MP Chris Loder as a private member’s bill in 2019.

A spokesman for the RSPCA said the charity is “celebrating this milestone”. In the last three years the RSPCA has secured 3,753 convictions in courts in England and Wales, and 156 individuals were given immediate prison terms. More than 130 offenders successfully prosecuted by the RSPCA were sentenced to six weeks or more in prison for cruelty offences.

RSPCA chief executive Chris Sherwood said this is a “landmark day” for animals and their welfare.

“For almost 200 years the RSPCA has been investigating animal cruelty and rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals. While we’ve seen vast changes in the way we keep animals during that time, as well as huge advances in legislation to better protect animal welfare, our sentences for animal abusers have long been letting our animals down,” he said.

“We’re absolutely thrilled that we’ve now reached this milestone moment and that courts will now have more flexibility to hand out sentences that better reflect the severity of the crimes they are dealing with and we hope the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Act will act as a greater deterrent and help us cancel out cruelty once and for all.”

Continued below… 

‘Cancel out cruelty once and for all’: tougher sentences for animal abusers made law four years on

“This reform is long overdue – for many years, the most violent and horrific abuse and cruelty received a maximum

Need for tougher sentences highlighted by vile attack on horse *H&H Plus*

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Mr Sherwood added in recent weeks the charity’s officers have been called out to investigate shocking cases including horses left with hooves so overgrown they could not walk – as well as pets who had been starved to death, and dogs who had been beaten to death.

“At least going forward our courts will be able to hand out sentences in animal cruelty cases that truly reflect the severity of the crimes,” he said.

“I’d like to thank all of the politicians who supported this Bill and I’d also like to congratulate everyone – from members of the public to organisations involved in the campaign – on this victory; it belongs to us all and shows what can be achieved when we all work together.”

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A “grossly obese” horse more than 100kg overweight and suffering from laminitis was allowed unrestricted grass and fed extra hay – despite advice from welfare inspectors and vets about the same horse three years earlier.

Tracey Anne Woodward, 53, of Normanton Park, Chingford, appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on 15-17 June. She was found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering to part-bred Hackney gelding John, and failing to provide a suitable diet between 5 March and 5 May 2020.

Last year the RSPCA was contacted by a concerned member of the public about the health of the gelding. The charity attended on 5 May 2020 and found John in pain and suffering from laminitis, but still being grazed with no restrictions and fed extra hay.

A vet described John as “grossly obese” and estimated it would have taken several months for him to have reached the “state” he was in. John was taken into possession by the police after the vet certified he was suffering, and he was transported to a vet hospital.

“His body condition could have been so easily avoided if he had been managed differently by his owner and had his grazing restricted,” said RSPCA inspector Jessica Hayes, who investigated the case.

“It’s really sad that he was allowed to become so hugely overweight, especially as we had previous dealings with Woodward in respect of a similar situation [involving John in 2017] when veterinary and dietary advice was provided, so she knew John’s needs could be met.”

The gelding has since been rehabilitated by Redwings and the judge granted a deprivation order so he can now be rehomed.

“When you read stories about neglect, it is often images of emaciated ponies that hit the headlines, but obesity is a serious welfare issue and we’re pleased it has been recognised with this conviction,” said Nic de Brauwere, Redwings’ head of welfare and behaviour.

“An overweight horse can suffer very significantly, and obesity can also lead to painful conditions such as laminitis, which John was experiencing.”

Mr de Brauwere said during John’s time at the sanctuary he has steadily returned to a healthy weight, which involved losing 124kg in “unnecessary fat”.

“This equates to him carrying 27 per cent more weight than his optimal healthy weight. This was done with John’s mental wellbeing carefully considered, with our team making huge and creative efforts to ensure he was kept occupied and had plenty to eat while still losing weight,” said Mr de Brauwere.

Continued below…

‘I have never seen ponies this fat’: grossly obese Shetlands rescued by charity

‘The majority of the time I respond to equines who are underweight. In an extreme contrast, these three are so

‘Reluctance and ignorance can mean signing horses’ death warrants’: top vet busts laminitis myths

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

“This once unhappy, frustrated and tetchy individual is now a much more relaxed, active and engaging horse.”

In mitigation, the court heard that the defendant’s actions were described as “misplaced or ignorant”.

Woodward was banned from keeping equines for three years. She was ordered to pay £8,000 costs and a £97 victim surcharge. She was also fined £875.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A man who neglected more than 90 ponies, including leaving one mare with a broken leg, was breaching a previous court ban on keeping equines.

Evan Lloyd Evans, of Chwilog, Pwllheli, Wales, was sentenced at Llandudno Magistrates’ Court on 21 June, having pleaded guilty to 10 offences under the Animal Welfare Act.

The 76-year-old, who admitted breaching a 10-year ban on keeping equines issued in 2013, had caused dozens of ponies, and three cockerels, to suffer at his farm.

The court saw footage of the premises, at which a multi-agency operation was carried out last September, which showed horses being kept in “filthy, dark and hazardous conditions”, an RSPCA spokesman said.

RSPCA inspector Keith Hogben found dozens of horses and other animals kept in outbuildings, barns and fields in “highly inappropriate conditions, with faeces everywhere – and even a bucket of dead rats”.

“The court heard Evans kept more than 90 ponies in illegal conditions, which were unhygienic and not free from hazards,” the spokesman said.

“Sadly, vets felt that dozens of the horses had suffered unnecessarily, including one, a steel grey Welsh section A pony, who had not received appropriate veterinary care for a broken leg, and another four grey female Welsh section As, who had not been given vet attention for lameness.

“Evans also failed to ensure six of his ponies had appropriate treatment for parasites, while one grey female Welsh section A pony had a severe facial deformity that had gone unchecked – all leading to more suffering for equines at the farm.”

Evans’ failure to seek the right dental care meant 28 ponies suffered, and eight more were deemed to have suffered from a lack of appropriate hoof care.

RSPCA Cymru worked with North Wales Police, World Horse Welfare, Redwings, the British Horse Society and vets to help the animals at the site, in a “great example of partnership working, which is testimony to what can be achieved together for animal welfare”.

Three cockerels also suffered unnecessarily; two with severe skin disease, and a third owing to an ulcerated hock and/or abnormal limb position.

Three horses had to be put down but almost all the others will be available for rehoming via different National Equine Welfare Council members. The three cockerels went into the care of the RSPCA.

Evans “co-operated fully” with the RSPCA’s investigation, is a long-standing farmer and animals have been a major part of his livelihood.

Evans was given a 20-week prison sentence, suspended for two years, and banned from keeping horses and poultry for 20 years. He was ordered to pay a £1,000 fine and a £128 victim surcharge.

After the sentencing, Mr Hogben said: “Sadly, many of the equines suffered as a consequence of Evans’ inaction. From insufficient hoof and dental care, to a pony with a broken leg; this case is an example of what can go wrong quickly when large numbers of animals aren’t cared for properly.

Continues below…

Competition rider who ‘chose to allow’ livery horses to suffer may still keep equines despite colt’s death

“It torments me wondering if he stood there starving and neglected and wondered why I didn’t come for him”

‘Cancel out cruelty once and for all’: tougher sentences for animal abusers made law four years on

“This reform is long overdue – for many years, the most violent and horrific abuse and cruelty received a maximum

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

“We’re indebted to our partners at North Wales Police, World Horse Welfare, Redwings and the British Horse Society, who worked tirelessly with us on this huge job, which was clearly so important for the continued welfare of the animals we rescued.

“Three cockerels suffered too, but I am just relieved that following the intervention of a number of agencies, many of these animals will now have a second chance of happiness. It’s a great example of partnership working which is testimony to what can be achieved together for animal welfare.”

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A colt who was found collapsed, with necrotic wounds to the bone for which his owner had failed to seek vet treatment, had to be put down to prevent him suffering further.

Carl Knowles, 29, of Halbutt Street, Dagenham, appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court on 1 June. He pleaded guilty to one offence of causing unnecessary suffering to 18-month old Max between 10 and 14 December 2020.

RSPCA inspector Jessica Dayes attended a location in Harlow with animal rescue officer Rebecca Yarrow and the police on 14 December 2020, following reports of a collapsed horse.

An RSPCA spokesman said when the team arrived they found Max collapsed and inspector Dayes reported he was making no attempt to stand because he was weak.

“She could see that Max’s hips and spine were clearly visible and there was a pile of faeces behind him which indicated he had been in the same position for some time,” said the spokesman.

“There appeared to be some bread placed in front of Max but this was wet and not eaten. Only muddy water was available.”

Max was seized by the police and a vet was called to administer pain relief.

“Rescuers could see he was suffering from open pressure sores on both elbows and between his front legs. When the wounds were examined at the hospital they had a putrid smell,” said the spokesman.

“Skin lesions on the limbs and over both points of the elbow had deep, ulcerated and necrotic wounds that penetrated to the bone and ligaments.”

The spokesman said the vet made the decision to put Max down to prevent him suffering further owing to his increased pulse, low body temperature, and the depth, extent and decay of his untreated wounds.

“The vet report stated it was unacceptable for any equine to be left collapsed, without the ability to move freely for days, without seeking further professional advice,” said Ms Dayes.

“The emaciation should have been investigated and treated and appropriate treatment should have been sought for the pain and discomfort caused by the wounds. All of Max’s conditions should have led any reasonable owner to seek immediate veterinary care.”

Continued below…

Competition rider who ‘chose to allow’ livery horses to suffer may still keep equines despite colt’s death

“It torments me wondering if he stood there starving and neglected and wondered why I didn’t come for him”

‘Cancel out cruelty once and for all’: tougher sentences for animal abusers made law four years on

“This reform is long overdue – for many years, the most violent and horrific abuse and cruelty received a maximum

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

In mitigation Knowles said he had called a vet but could not afford the treatment.

Knowles was given an 18-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work. He was banned from keeping animals for life and cannot appeal this for 10 years. He must pay £600 costs and a £128 victim surcharge.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The Government’s “action plan for animal welfare” – including a proposed ban on live exports for slaughter and new legislation on livestock worrying – was introduced in parliament this week.

The plans come under the new Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill which had its first reading on Tuesday (8 June). If the Bill is successful, the UK will become the first European country to end the practice of live exports for slaughter. The new legislation will also give new powers to the police to provide greater protection to livestock, including horses, from dangerous and out-of-control dogs.

Improving welfare during transport for equines destined for slaughter is the founding issue of World Horse Welfare and the charity welcomes the Government’s plans.

“Where equines are to be slaughtered, we believe this should happen as close to their point of origin as possible,” said World Horse Welfare chief executive Roly Owers.

“By their very nature, equines transported to slaughter may be more susceptible to health and welfare risks on long journeys. For this reason, a ban on movements for slaughter out of Great Britain is excellent news.”

But Mr Owers added that “in reality”, nothing will change until a fully digitised system of equine identification and traceability of horse movement is in place.

“There have been no declarations of equines being exported for slaughter from Great Britain for many years, but horses and ponies are exported for a variety of reasons and there is no way to guarantee that a horse declared as being exported for another purpose will not go directly for meat,” he said.

“Until there is full traceability within and outside of the UK it is not possible to know where exported horses end up.”

A spokesman for the charity added that many equines transported under the radar are also not being declared as commercial movements.

“This means some transporters are not complying with welfare during transport legislation, which applies only to commercial transporters, and equines are being transported long distances in often cramped conditions,” said the spokesman.

“An effective and reliable equine ID and traceability system is vital to help tackle the grey area of transporters falsely identifying as not for slaughter or not commercial slipping under the radar at border crossings. Appropriate checks and the resources available to undertake them are also needed to enable the new legislation to be enforceable.”

Continued below…

‘Cancel out cruelty once and for all’: tougher sentences for animal abusers made law four years on

“This reform is long overdue – for many years, the most violent and horrific abuse and cruelty received a maximum

‘Once in a generation‘ opportunity in fight against long-distance transport for slaughter

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

The spokesman said the charity also welcomes the plans relating to livestock worrying of animals in England and Wales.

“Attacks on horses by out-of-control dogs is a worrying problem for owners and riders, and the new legislation will confer additional powers on the police, allowing them to identify owners and their animals and take action. The legislation includes more than what is traditionally considered as agricultural land, so covers horses grazing in a variety of situations, such as on allotments, or on roads and paths, which is a positive development for equines and their riders when out hacking,” he said.

“The Bill will now require further readings in parliament before being set into law. Further bills based on the government’s action plan for animal welfare are expected in the coming months.”

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The worst animal abusers could face five years in prison as the “milestone” Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill is made law this week.

In 2017 the Government pledged to reform the maximum sentence for those prosecuted under the Animal Welfare Act, receiving support from cross-party politicians. The Bill was brought forward by West Dorset MP Chris Loder in June 2019.

Today (28 April) the Bill passed its final stage in Parliament and will receive royal assent tomorrow (29 April). The Bill, which is expected to come into force this year, means courts will have the flexibility to impose tougher sentences for the worst animal abusers. The law will bring England, and Wales once the Welsh Parliament passes a legislative consent motion, into line with Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Welfare charities have campaigned for a number of years for increased sentencing and the RSPCA said the Bill was a “huge step forward” for animal welfare.

“Tougher sentences will act as a stronger deterrent to potential animal abusers and will help us in our aim to cancel out animal cruelty once and for all,” said RSPCA chief executive Chris Sherwood.

“This reform is long overdue – for many years, the most violent and horrific abuse and cruelty received a maximum penalty of just a few months. We’re proud to have some of the best standards of animal welfare in the world but custodial sentences have long been letting us down.”

Continued below…

‘A clear signal to potential offenders’: tougher sentences for animal cruelty a step closer

“It’s time that the sentences imposed on individuals who cause pain and suffering to animals reflect the severity of the

Need for tougher sentences highlighted by vile attack on horse *H&H Plus*

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Mr Sherwood added every year the charity’s officers are faced with cases of the “most unimaginable cruelty”.

“Animals have been starved, shot, stabbed, beaten to death and drowned. At least now, in those cases that leave us heartbroken, our courts will be able to hand out sentences that truly reflect the severity of the crimes,” he said.

MP Chris Loader said: “MP Chris Loder said: “It has taken years of hard work to realise this – thank you to all involved. The campaign for our animals continues. Banning live exports and non-stunned slaughter next.”

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

An emaciated mare suffering with arthritis and an infected wound had to be put down following her rescue as her condition continued to deteriorate.

Stephen John Challis, 59, of Brickfield Lane, Burnham, Slough, was sentenced at Reading Magistrates’ Court on 17 March, following a hearing on 15 January.

Challis was convicted of three offences under the Animal Welfare Act; causing unnecessary suffering to bay mare Bonny by failing to investigate and address her poor condition and weight loss, failing to provide veterinary care for her injured leg and lameness caused by osteoarthritis, and failing to provide adequate hoof care between 2 April and 4 August 2019.

**Warning: upsetting image**

RSPCA inspector Rachel Smith, who led the investigation, said even from a distance she could see how thin Bonny was.

“Her ribs, spine, hips and pelvis were prominent,” she said. “She had a dirty bandage on her front left leg and her knee appeared swollen. Her hooves were long, with both front hooves split in several places indicating a lack of recent appropriate farriery care.

“I arranged for a vet to examine the mare who confirmed she was in a suffering state. Removing her bandage revealed an old infected wound that was green and smelt.

The inspector said despite Bonny receiving treatment for her emaciated condition and injury, the mare’s condition deteriorated further.

Continued below…

Horses rescued from Whispering Willows renamed in honour of NHS

Redwings Horse Sanctuary was one of the charities to take in some of the 137 horses removed from Whispering Willows,

Rescue pony who looked ‘ready to die’ helping young people 10 years on

Buddy needed round the clock care when he arrived at the charity in 2011, weighing a third of his ideal

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

“Sadly a vet recommended it would be in her best interest to put her to sleep,” she said.

Challis confirmed he had not had a vet attend “for a long time” and said he trimmed the mare’s hooves himself. He denied being the owner or person responsible for Bonny but accepted that he had acted as her carer for the last 15-20 years by way of his daily feeding and maintenance for her. It was also said that he cared for an older relative and had been impacted the coronavirus pandemic.

He was banned from keeping equines for four years, and sentenced to 16 weeks’ imprisonment concurrent for each offence, suspended for 12 months. He must undertake 180 hours of unpaid work and pay £1,000 costs.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

THE case of an equine “sanctuary” from which 137 horses were removed, many in poor condition, highlights the need for the licensing of such organisations.

Sandra Jane Kaverneng-Stolp, known as Sandra Stolp, pleaded guilty to four offences under the Animal Welfare Act, relating to 22 horses, at Swansea Magistrates’ Court on 15 February. The 54-year-old, of Derwen Road, Pontardawe, Swansea, ran the Whispering Willows sanctuary.

The 137 horses, found at three sites, were signed over to equine charities in November 2019, after a multi-agency operation involving the RSPCA, World Horse Welfare, Redwings, the British Horse Society, the Horse Trust, Blue Cross, Bransby Horses, the Mare and Foal Sanctuary and the Donkey Sanctuary.

Vets confirmed many of the horses were in poor condition; one estimated that some of them had been suffering for six months or more, and two had to be put down. The court heard Stolp was struggling financially to care for the more than 100 horses.

She was banned from keeping all horses for 10 years and ordered to pay £1,000 in costs and a £90 victim surcharge. She must serve a 20-week curfew, during which she will wear a tag.

H&H has reported on calls for sanctuaries to be licensed, and National Equine Welfare Council (NEWC) chairman Nic de Brauwere said the Whispering Willows case shows why this is “the next vital step” in protecting animal welfare.

“Too many times, NEWC members have seen sanctuaries struggle and fail when, at best, they take on too many animals without the necessary care, knowledge, experience or finances, or, at worst, use it to unscrupulously ask for people’s money while allowing animals in their supposed care to needlessly suffer,” he said.

“Just like on this occasion, it results in experienced charities having to join forces to provide emergency care and find new homes for the affected animals – putting additional pressure on their own resources.

“We welcome this result and sentencing, which we hope will act as a warning, and encourage more people to think carefully about who they donate their money to.”

Horse Trust head of field skills Carolyn Madgwick told H&H the trust supports the calls for licensing and regulation, as although many sanctuaries are set up with good intentions, founders often lack the necessary knowledge and skills.

“All equine charities rely on donations from the public – we need to ensure rescues and sanctuaries are known to authorities and regularly inspected, to assure the public their donations are helping horses, and situations like the case of Whispering Willows do not happen again,” she said.

World Horse Welfare CEO Roly Owers agreed that although “rescuers” may believe they are saving horses, if they cannot provide the right care, the animals are moving “out of the frying pan and into the fire.

“As highlighted in our joint report Britain’s Horse Problem, we and other equine welfare organisations are pressing for all animal welfare establishments to be licensed and inspected,” he told H&H. This will not only help to protect the welfare of the animals but also reassure the public that the animals are being looked after to an acceptable standard.”

Mare and Foal Sanctuary CEO Sarah Jane Williamson told H&H some smaller rescues do provide exemplary care, but licensing would ensure these standards were met across the board.

“Licensing would also mean that the public could confidently give their support to deserving sanctuaries and rescue centres,” she said.

You might also be interested in…

The well-meaning ‘rescuers’ who do more harm than good *H&H VIP*

‘Buying horses out of perceived welfare situations is not rescuing; it is creating a market for horses to receive poor

Whispering Willows sanctuary owner banned after 137 horses removed and two put down

“Sadly, when things went wrong, these horses suffered the consequences”

Calls for equine rescue licensing after ‘sanctuary’ welfare prosecution *H&H Plus*

‘In the vast majority of cases, people set up with the best intentions’

We are all responsible for fixing ‘broken system’ that allows horses to suffer *H&H Plus*

26 horses removed from rescue centre after owner allowed equines to suffer

One horse had to be put down and another had to have his eye removed after the woman who ran

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Police are trying to identify a man who beat a horse multiple times with a whip then beat a dog in a “shocking and barbaric” assault.

Surrey Police has released CCTV images from the incident, which took place in Shepperton on 9 February, as they search for the man in connection with the animal cruelty investigation.

A spokesman for the force said officers were informed of the CCTV footage, which showed a man driving a single horse and trap “aggressively” along Laleham Road.

“Having stopped the trap and unhitched the horse, he proceeded to beat it multiple times with a riding crop. He then beat a lurcher dog in the trailer multiple times before the dog ran off,” said the spokesman.

“The horse and dog were later seized under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, and are currently receiving medical treatment for their injuries.”

The spokesman said the footage is “too upsetting” to be shown in its entirety so it has been cropped and images have been released in the hope someone recognises the man and can help the police identify him.

“He is described as a white man with a stocky build and dark hair, wearing a black jacket and dark trousers,” he said, adding that the trap is wooden with white shafts, the horse is skewbald with a white harness, and the dog is black with white patches.

PS Lee Donovan of the neighbourhood patrol team said the incident was a “shocking and barbaric assault on two helpless animals”.

“We are extremely keen to hear from anyone who witnessed this male prior to the attack on the animals riding around on local roads including any dashcam footage,“ he said.

“Surrey Police take animal cruelty extremely seriously and will be pursuing this offender.”

Article continued below… 

‘Help us bring them home’: five basset hounds stolen from kennels

The two and a half couple of working bassets, belonging to the Westerby Basset Hounds, were stolen when their kennels

Police appeal: teenager rider suffers serious head injury in fall after car passed too fast

Officers are keen to speak to the driver of the car and anyone who may have witnessed the incident

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

The spokesman said anyone who was in the Shepperton area around 2.30pm and 3pm on 9 February is asked to check their home CCTV, bicycle head camera or dashcam footage for any sign of a man driving a horse and trap in the area.

“We are looking for anything that may be able to help us identify him – no detail is insignificant,” he said.

Anyone with information should contact Surrey Police by either calling 101, completing an online form at www.surrey.police.uk, or by the force’s webchat service, and quoting crime reference number PR/45210013667.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The owner of a donkey suffering with irreversible hoof problems told welfare inspectors the animal had been like that for 10 years.

Benjamin Peter Marshall, 44, of New Street, Southowram, Halifax, was sentenced at Bradford Magistrates’ Court on 19 January. He pleaded guilty to three charges; causing unnecessary suffering to a donkey called Jemimah between 5 September and 5 November 2019, failing to meet the needs of Jemimah, and failing to meet the needs of a donkey called Snowball on or before 5 November 2019.

A spokesman for the RSPCA said Marshall had previously failed to comply with advice from the RSPCA and the Donkey Sanctuary. A joint investigation was launched by the charities after they found the basic welfare needs of Jemimah and Snowball were not being met and they needed urgent veterinary and farrier treatment.

“RSPCA inspector Rebecca Goulding and two welfare advisers from the Donkey Sanctuary discovered the donkeys living on a waste site that contained many dangerous objects. The area was littered with broken plastic, wood, scrap metal, dumped wooden pallets and rolls of metal fencing among other rubbish,” said the spokesman.

“There was also a broken trailer that had multiple sharp edges, and the area was strewn with broken metal and glass. The inspector found that there was no area of the field that was safe or suitable for the donkeys.”

The spokesman said the grass was sparse and the forage provided was wet and covered in mud and faeces.

“The owner advised the donkeys had access to water in a dustbin, but the water level was too low down for the donkeys to reach,” he said. “Their shelter was dirty and deep in mud and faeces and meant the donkeys had no hard standing.”

A vet assessed the donkeys and found that Jemimah was extremely lame with laminitis.

“Jemimah had an overgrown hoof and was in a lot of pain. Marshall told the vet ‘the donkey had been like that for 10 years and that it was fine’,” said the spokesman.

“Snowball’s feet were overgrown and starting to curl upwards. She had thrush and severe white line disease in all four of her feet. Both donkeys were also found to have extremely sharp teeth and there was no evidence of previous dental work.”

The spokesman said the vet recommended Jemimah and Snowball be removed from the site, and West Yorkshire Police took them into possession. They were passed into the RSPCA’s care, and transported to a Donkey Sanctuary-funded holding base to receive specialist care and start their rehabilitation.

“More than a year has passed since Snowball and Jemimah were rescued and although the Donkey Sanctuary has done all it can to keep Jemimah comfortable during her rehabilitation, her irreversible chronic hoof condition can only be managed,” said the spokesman.

“Jemimah’s quality of life is being closely monitored and should her condition deteriorate, we will have to seriously consider the option of euthanasia as the last kind decision we make for her,” added Donkey Sanctuary welfare adviser Keira Benham. “We have prepared for this possibility by introducing Snowball and Jemimah to another donkey called Dolly, who is of a similar age, which mitigates the risk of Snowball suffering from stress if she were to lose her companion.”

Continued below…

Starving donkeys found living among shards of glass ‘thriving’ since rescue

Donkeys rescued during Storm Dennis from a site strewn with broken glass and barbed are growing in confidence seven months

Pony found in garden shed ‘in pain with every step’ put down

Two cobs and 14 donkeys were seized by police and taken into the care of the RSPCA and the Donkey

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

In mitigation the court heard Marshall should be given credit for his guilty plea and he had now agreed to sign Snowball over the RSPCA. Jemimah was signed over at an earlier date.

The magistrates stated this was a serious case and Jemimah had suffered significantly. They two donkeys had not been provided with water, adequate vet treatment or farrier care and in short the donkeys’ needs were not met.

Marshall was banned from keeping equines for five years. He was given an 18-month community order with 150 hours of unpaid work, and must pay £350 costs and a £90 victim surcharge.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Tougher sentences for the worst animal abusers are a step closer, as potential offenders are warned “there is no place for animal cruelty in this country”.

MPs debated the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill in the House of Commons today (3 February) where it passed the committee stage. This means the Bill will now move to the report stage, followed by a third reading at the House of Commons.

In 2017 the Government pledged to reform the maximum sentence for those prosecuted under the Animal Welfare Act in England, and the Bill would mean those guilty of the most serious acts of animal cruelty will face a maximum penalty of five years in prison, up from the current six months.

A spokesman for the RSPCA said the charity is “thrilled” about today’s debate and the charity hopes MPs from across all parties will come together to pass the Bill “for the good of the animals” across England.

The Welsh government is expected to put a legislative consent motion before the Welsh parliament meaning any change in law in England would also apply in Wales. Ireland and Scotland recently increased their maximum sentences to five years.

RSPCA director of advocacy and policy Heidi Allen said: “We warmly welcome the news that the Bill has passed through this stage and is one step closer to becoming law. We believe all political parties are aligned in their desire to get the Bill on to the statute book in this parliamentary session, in other words before the next Queen’s Speech which is expected in May. MPs and peers agree with us that no suffering animal can afford to wait another minute.

“We believe the will exists to speed the Bill through the House of Commons and House of Lords if the Government allows time for it.”

Ms Allen added that every day the charity receives reports of “unimaginable” cruelty and neglect inflicted on animals.

“It’s time that the sentences imposed on individuals who cause pain and suffering to animals reflect the severity of the crimes they are committing,” she said.

Continued below… 

‘No place for cruelty’: tougher sentences for animal abusers a step closer

“The Bill delivers a strong message to animal abusers that their behaviour will no longer be tolerated”

Mare put down after savage knife attack: owner’s call for law change

‘We might never know who did it but we’re trying to be proactive and want Sindy to be remembered. If

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

“The current sentences available to courts dealing with abhorrent acts of violence against animals as well as serious, organised animal crime are completely inadequate. It’s time this changed and our courts had more power when it comes to sentencing the perpetrators of these hideous crimes. So we implore all MPs, peers and the Government to do everything they can to get the Bill through.”

Chris Loder MP said: “Today, in the House of Commons, we are one step closer to increasing tenfold the maximum custodial penalty for those who abuse animals. The UK has some of the highest animal welfare standards in the world, but in terms of penalties we are currently amongst the lowest.

“I am so pleased that this Bill is making progress today, sending a clear signal to potential offenders that there is no place for animal cruelty in this country.”

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A Shetland pony found in a garden shed, and “in pain with every step”, has been put down, while 16 other horses and donkeys living in filth have been rescued.

Ivan Ballantyne, 76, and Jeannie Winskill, 44, of Southwaite, Carlisle, were sentenced at Carlisle Magistrates’ Court on 11 January. The pair pleaded guilty to two charges; allowing seven donkeys to suffer and failing to meet the needs of 17 equines (a Shetland pony, two cobs and 14 donkeys) between 4 January and 4 February 2020. Winskill also pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to the Shetland pony.

An RSPCA spokesman told H&H that following concerns raised by members of the public, the Donkey Sanctuary attended the property in August 2019. Return visits were made in December 2019 and January 2020 but the pair failed to comply with welfare advice given.

An RSPCA investigation was launched after the Donkey Sanctuary found the basic welfare needs of the animals were not being met, and some of the donkeys needed urgent veterinary and farriery treatment. On 4 February 2020, the charities attended the property with a vet, and officers from Cumbria Police.

“Donkeys with overgrown hooves were seen struggling to walk through the deep mud – they seemed uncomfortable as they moved. There was a lack of shelter, hard standing and anywhere clean and dry for the animals to rest,” said RSPCA deputy chief inspector Carl Larsson.

“The sheds provided were too small and unsanitary, a dead rat was seen within the soiled straw at the back of one. Straw put down for the animals was sodden with faeces, urine and presumably rainwater – they appeared not to have been mucked out in a long time. There was also a muck heap that had hay on the top, which two horses and the donkeys were feeding from.”

Mr Larsson said a Shetland pony was found confined in a “garden shed”.

“He barely had room to turn around. It was difficult to watch as the poor animal reluctantly struggled to walk and appeared to be in pain with every step,” he said.

“An independent vet certified such was his suffering he sadly needed to be put to sleep immediately in his own interest.”

The RSPCA spokesman said when the vet examined the remaining animals, she found some of the donkeys had lice, were very lame and were struggling to walk due to overgrown hooves. The equines were removed by the police and the donkeys were taken to a Donkey Sanctuary holding base where they received farriery and veterinary care. The two cobs were taken into the care of the RSPCA and it is hoped they will be rehomed in future.

“The donkeys have since all improved considerably, but some of their journeys to full recovery will be long. Ownership of the donkeys will now be given to the Donkey Sanctuary,” said the RSPCA spokesman.

“Some will need lifelong care due to the extent of their neglect, while others may be considered for the charity’s rehoming scheme in the future.”

The Donkey Sanctuary’s head of welfare Hannah Bryer said sadly situations like this are not uncommon.

Article continued below…

‘No justification’ for ‘worst case of neglect’ seen by welfare inspector

The man pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering when he appeared in court last month following the SSPCA investigation

Starving donkeys found living among shards of glass ‘thriving’ since rescue

Donkeys rescued during Storm Dennis from a site strewn with broken glass and barbed are growing in confidence seven months

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

“Lack of appropriate hoof care is still one of the most common welfare issues faced by donkeys in the UK today,” she said.

“Our welfare team works throughout Britain to offer advice and information about the easy steps that can be taken to avoid this type of suffering.”

In mitigation the court heard that neither defendant had any previous convictions. Ballantye received a 16-week curfew order, and Winskill was sentenced to 15 rehabilitation activity requirement days and a 12-week curfew order. They were banned from keeping equines for 10 years and must each pay £750 costs.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A man who allowed three horses to suffer including two pregnant mares has been banned from keeping equines for five years.

Nicolas Green, 61, of Glebe Close, Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire, was found guilty of two offences under the Animal Welfare Act when he appeared at High Wycombe Magistrates’ Court on 23 December.

It was found Green caused unnecessary suffering and failed to address the poor condition of mares Elsa and Summer. He also did not meet the needs or address the poor condition of a horse called Guard.

An RSPCA spokesman said members of the public reported concerns about the horses’ condition and a lack of food and water, to the charity and World Horse Welfare. A vet was called on 21 February 2020 after it was felt the situation had become “critical”.

“Officers had visited on several occasions during the two months prior, leaving notices asking the owner to get in contact with them but had had no owner contact in that time,” he said.

“In the vet’s opinion Summer and Elsa were in very poor body condition, and their nutritional demands were not being met, especially as both were found to be pregnant. The vet felt they were suffering at the time of examination; and was concerned their suffering was likely to continue, and potentially worsen.”

The spokesman added that a member of the public reported she filled the water tubs in the field almost daily, as “otherwise they would be empty”, and that feeding by the owner was sporadic.

RSPCA chief inspector Rob Hartley said owners must always ensure they are acting in a responsible manner to safeguard the welfare of their horses.

“This could have been avoided if Green had provided clean fresh water and forage, plus hard feed with a vitamin and mineral supplement for the mares in particular, twice daily over the winter months,” he said.

Green was sentenced to a 12-month community order to carry out 150 hours of unpaid work. He must pay £1,000 costs, plus a victim surcharge of £90. A deprivation order was granted in respect of the horses.

In February 2020, Elsa and Summer were taken to Redwings Horse Sanctuary, where Elsa gave birth to a filly the following month, named Bruni.

“Very sadly Summer gave birth to a stillborn foal in April. Thanks to Elsa’s companionship and lots of care from Redwings’ vet and equine teams, Summer recovered from her loss and the three spent the summer enjoying time out in a field together,” said the RSPCA spokesman.

“Over the summer the two horses slowly began to regain weight, their stiffness was managed and they enjoyed the company of their carers. However in October Summer was brought into Redwings’ hospital with severe lameness caused by a hoof abscess. Upon further inspection it became clear that she was also suffering from osteomyelitis – an infection of the pedal bone in her foot.”

The spokesman said despite best efforts to keep Summer comfortable it was decided the “kindest thing to do” was to put her down.

“To treat her infection would have required surgery with a potentially long and painful recovery and, coupled with Summer’s existing osteoarthritis in her hind legs, it wasn’t deemed fair,” he said.

Article continued below…

‘He will live for ever in our hearts’: heartbreak as youngster put down a week after rescue

The charity said the colt received round-the-clock care while vets fought “tirelessly” to save him

Four horses put down after 31-strong herd neglected

“Owning horses is a privilege, and despite repeated warnings, the standards of care have fallen well short of legal requirements

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Redwings’ chief executive Lynn Cutress added while the charity is “incredibly sad” to have lost Summer, they take comfort she had 10 happy months in the charity’s care.

“Her and Elsa had many health issues to overcome when they first came to the sanctuary and it’s thanks to the actions of the RSPCA and the dedication of our teams that these beautiful best friends were able to come so far together,” she said.

“Their care gave Elsa’s foal Bruni a chance at a healthy and happy life, and we now look forward to being able to give this stunning mother and daughter a loving forever home.”

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A man who neglected 31 horses, to the point four had to be put down, has been banned from keeping equids for 10 years and given a suspended prison sentence.

Alun Lloyd, of Sunny Hill, Llanfyrnach, was found guilty of nine offences under the Animal Welfare Act. He was sentenced on 22 December at Llanelli Magistrates’ Court.

A spokesman for RSPCA Cymru said the 31 horses in Lloyd’s care were being kept in an unsuitable environment, in several fields at Esgyr Fawr, Cippyn, where ragwort was prevalent.

“Further offences specifically related to seven of the horses owned by Lloyd — six of whom his failure to act caused to suffer unnecessarily,” the spokesman said, adding that the horses were in poor condition. One also had an ulcerated sarcoid and another, serious dental issues.

Three horses needed lice control, two treatment for rain scald and one veterinary attention for breathing issues.

Four of the horses had to be put down, owing to the “extent of their condition and not responding to intensive treatment”.

The RSPCA was contacted by Dyfed Powys Police about the horses. The charity’s officers said conditions had not improved despite advice they had offered, and that the court case was the result of “bad husbandry” and failure to respect the horses’ basic needs.

RSPCA inspector Keith Hogben said: “Sadly, this case saw multiple horses cared for completely inappropriately. Some 31 did not have their needs met, with repeated bad husbandry and several fields full of ragwort causing serious problems.

“Seven horses in particular caused us serious concern, with a combination of poor bodily condition, weight loss, dental problems and an ulcerated sarcoid causing suffering among this neglected group.

Continues below…

We are all responsible for fixing ‘broken system’ that allows horses to suffer *H&H Plus*

Emaciated feral ponies found on road are safe and sound for Christmas

“It was incredibly sad to see these two ponies in such desperate need of care, but so frightened of people”

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

“Owning horses is a privilege, and unfortunately, despite repeated warnings, the standards of care have fallen well short of legal requirements here — and sadly these animals have paid the price. Fortunately, the RSPCA was able to intervene and the majority of these horses will have another chance of happiness.

It is understood that in mitigation, it was highlighted that the defendant had cared for horses for a number of years. He had been unprepared to relinquish control of the animals, despite the fact he was finding it increasingly difficult to care for them.

As well as the six-month prison sentence, suspended for two years, Lloyd was disqualified from the keeping and owning of horses for 10 years, and ordered to pay £1,500 in fines and costs. He cannot appeal the ban for five years.

He was given 28 days to make arrangements for horses still in his care.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Every year, H&H reports on incident after incident of horses’ and owners’ lives devastated by the impact of fireworks. With New Year’s Eve approaching, we find out how you can help make a difference

A RALLYING call has gone out to horse owners to help bring an end to the misery caused by fireworks.

As Britain prepares to welcome a new year tonight (31 December), there is no doubt fireworks will be let off. There is also little doubt that the result, once again, will be horses, animals and people terrified, injured or worse.

But change is coming about, Julie Doorne of the FAB firework abatement campaign believes.

A Government petition will be debated in parliament next year; this will be the fifth time one of her group’s petitions has been debated, having been signed by more than 100,000 people.

The most recent, calling for the sale of fireworks to be limited to organisers of licensed displays, has almost 280,000 signatures.

“There’s obviously a problem,” Julie said. “People might think nothing happens from signing the petitions but it does. The

Scottish Government has made changes, the Office for Product Safety and Standards has started a safety campaign, and is collecting data. That’s down to the campaign; they weren’t doing it before.”

In Scotland, restrictive rules will be introduced for parliament to consider in the new year.

And while signing petitions has undoubtedly helped make these changes, Julie said, there is far more people can do.

She urged people to ask MPs to support an “early day motion” on fireworks, proposed by MP Sarah Owen; the motions are a way of bringing parliament attention to issues, and this one is calling for a review on firework law.

“Complaining on Facebook won’t achieve anything, and signing a petition is good but not enough,” she said. “People have to write to their MPs, and keep doing it; I write to mine every week.

“Then, when you get the standard reply, write back to say you know about the law, but the law isn’t working.

“Report incidents to the British Horse Society and RSPCA even though they can’t do anything at the time, as their data goes to the Government. Report to councils and police; you can usually do this online under antisocial behaviour, then you get an incident number, and it will definitely be recorded.

“The Government say they understand there’s a problem. They don’t understand the size of the issue because there’s nowhere to report legal firework use.”

Keep at it

“PEOPLE say the Government isn’t listening, so they don’t do anything, but that’s not the way to change things. If you want change, you have to keep at it.” Julie said.

“We’ve got to keep knocking on the door and it will open one day.”

RSPCA animal welfare expert Dr Mark Kennedy said: “All too often we hear heartbreaking stories of animals who seriously injure themselves in blind panic after being spooked by fireworks. Perhaps even more shockingly, we hear of animals being deliberately injured using fireworks. Enough is enough; we need tighter controls over sale and use of these potentially lethal explosives.”

A Government spokesman told H&H: “We want the public to enjoy fireworks, but this should be done in a safe and considerate way. That is why we have robust laws in place controlling the sale, purchase and use of fireworks, to continue to promote their responsible use.

“Fireworks should not be set off near animals or close to buildings that house livestock, or near to horses in fields. Deliberately causing any animal to suffer is an offence under the Animal Welfare Act and perpetrators could face a five-year prison sentence.”

News editor’s comment

EVERY year, from October onwards, we hear and see the heartbreak caused by fireworks.

Just this year, H&H reported on the death of Flashy, who had just moved to her new home when she fractured her spine in terror of fireworks, and had to be put down.

It is thought rare zebra foal Hope, whose birth at Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, Bristol, during lockdown had been a beacon of hope in dark times, died instantly when she collided with a fence during a fireworks display.

Dettori, a 21-year-old gelding, lost an eye after he was injured during fireworks, and five-year-old mare Kaprika was found standing over her aborted foal on 5 November, exactly a year after another of the same stud’s mares had suffered a miscarriage.

These are just four we have heard about, this year, and whose heartbroken owners we have spoken to. In a recent Blue Cross survey of horse owners, 35% of respondents reported accidents as a direct result of fireworks, which included a pony who broke her neck and a horse who sustained a serious leg injury. Both had to be put down, and another pony died of a heart attack.

Please, sign the petition, write to your MP, make it clear the effect fireworks have. This must stop.

Welfare law fails to offer protection on fireworks *H&H Plus*

Fireworks cause second mare to abort foal: owner vows to campign for change

She was standing on her own, mourning her foal”

Hopes and fears as fireworks night approaches *H&H Plus*

Devastation as zebra foal dies after local fireworks displays

“She was so full of energy and life and she was a very healthy young zebra”

‘Missed the point, again’: Disappointment at government’s response to fireworks inquiry *H&H Plus*

Owner of horse who broke spine joins mounting calls for tougher firework laws

More pressure is being put on the Government to introduce tighter controls over the sale and use of fireworks after

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The legacy of a youngster who “lost his fight to live” a week after being rescued will live on in a welfare charity’s hearts.

Bransby Horses became involved in a welfare case in 2017 when field officers were called out to three horses living in inappropriate conditions, with limited access to water or food. One horse was tethered, underweight and needed farriery attention.

A charity spokesman said that after locating an owner, the field officers discovered the horse was under veterinary care and so the charity worked with the owner to improve the condition of the horses.

“We supported the owner for months with a feeding plan and regular visits, which happily resulted in all three equines’ welfare improving,” he said.

“The owner had engaged [with us] and completed all requested improvements, and there were no longer any welfare concerns. One of the mares in the herd had also foaled a beautiful colt, and all was well. Our team was naturally happy with the positive outcome.”

The spokesman said the charity’s team continued to monitor the herd over the next few months and was satisfied with the owner’s “new ways of working”, resulting in the case being closed with no further concerns raised by the public.

“Sadly the story doesn’t end there,” said the spokesman. “A year later one of our field officers became aware of a collapsed equine. On arrival it quickly became apparent this was the same herd from the year before. The owner had moved them to new surroundings and the level of care for the equines had seriously diminished.

“The youngster was in serious need of veterinary intervention. The RSPCA came to support us with a vet, who deemed the horse was suffering, and he was removed under the Animal Welfare Act.”

The spokesman said the youngster was transported to Bransby’s intensive care unit and named Peter, after the charity’s founder Peter Hunt as it was the anniversary of his death.

“Peter received round-the-clock care while the staff and vets fought tirelessly to save him,” he said.

“Unfortunately due to pneumonia, combined with a high worm burden and severe lice infestation, Peter lost his fight to live. Peter was only with us for one week but touched the hearts of everyone who met him and he’ll never be forgotten.”

An RSPCA investigation was launched, and Bransby worked with the charity to deliver a “successful outcome” in court.

“The owner pleaded guilty to failing to investigate and address the cause of a poor body condition and weight loss. They were given a community order and ordered to pay costs,” said the spokesman.

“They were also disqualified from owning or keeping horses for 10 years and ordered to sign over any remaining equines into the care of Bransby Horses.”

Article continued below…

Emaciated horses recovering well as owners banned for 10 years

“Magic weighed 356kg, meaning he was at least 100kg underweight. Lexi weighed 384kg. A thoroughbred of a similar height would

Rescued horses terrified of human touch ‘transformed’, plus seven foals born

The group were part of a multi-agency operation to remove more than 130 horses from a site at the M25

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Bransby welcomed Peter’s dam, named Dora by the charity, and the other horses Diego and Alicia.

“Finally they were safe and would receive the love and care they deserved,” said the spokesman.

“Diego and Alicia were underweight when they came to us but Dora was getting rounder by the day. It was soon apparent she was in foal. In 2019 we welcomed beautiful Boots. She captured our hearts the second we saw her. Peter never got to live the life that Boots will, but he will live for ever in her legacy and our hearts.”

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Leading UK equine welfare charities have created a report looking into what can no longer be called a horse crisis, as it has become the norm. They have also made recommendations on how to resolve the problems. H&H finds out more

SEVEN welfare charities have joined forces to report on the “dire state” of the UK’s horse crisis – and offer solutions to the “broken system” that has caused it.

World Horse Welfare, Blue Cross, Bransby Horses, British Horse Society, Horseworld, Redwings and the RSPCA published the report, Britain’s Horse Problem, which highlights the fact more responsible ownership, rules and enforcement are needed to “break the cycle of suffering”.

It states that the situation in England and Wales can no longer be described as a horse “crisis”, as it has been persistent for so long, arising after the 2008 financial crisis and continuing unabated. Reports in 2012 and 2013 set out the situation, along with recommendations of actions the public, Government, agencies and charities should take to address it.

“While equine charities have taken in thousands of horses each year since these reports were published, horses are being put at risk at least at the same pace as we are collectively able to rescue them,” reads this month’s report.

“Like trying to drain a bath with the taps still on, no matter how much water escapes down the drain, the water level remains unchanged.”

The report states that work must start now on reforming the system if we are to learn from history; the recession expected as a result of the coronavirus is “likely to cause the welfare ‘bath’ to overflow”.

The report covers the way the pandemic has affected welfare charities and is expected to create significantly more issues, at a time when charities are least able to cope with them, “against a backdrop of a ‘broken system’ which allows thousands of horses to become at risk of suffering each year”.

Entrepreneur and rescue horse owner Deborah Meaden said: “Issues such as overbreeding, neglect, accidental breeding and the ever-rising cost of keeping a horse have all combined to create the perfect storm for the equine world.

“We all need to pull together to help the plight of vulnerable horses, ponies and donkeys who will fall victim to the new layer of problems the equine world faces in the months and years to come. I think it is all our responsibility to care and help these animals whether we are horse owners or not.”

The reports sets out progress in the past six years, such as the introduction of the Control of Horses Act and changes to equine ID laws. There has been more investment in human behaviour change-related approaches by welfare charities, and organisations are taking a multi-agency approach to welfare.

But members of the National Equine Welfare Council (NEWC) take in more than 2,000 horses every year. Space is limited and some smaller charities have either folded or merged with larger organisations.

The report states that inadequate enforcement of legislation is partly to blame for the situation, as this allows abusers to offend “systematically”. It adds that if new equine ID legislation is properly enforced, which it has not been in the past, this could go a long way towards fixing the system. The Animal Welfare Act must also be better enforced, the report authors believe – Defra estimates that 111 of 343 local authorities have no animal welfare inspectors, partly because councils have never had any funding specifically for enforcing the Act.

Roly Owers, chief executive of World Horse Welfare, which led the coalition producing the report, said: “With such a challenging winter ahead, now is the time to highlight to the public and Government that we see a grim equine welfare storm brewing, and that we urgently need support to cope with it.

“It is as important as ever to better tackle the root causes of this systemic scourge and change the system to better protect horses and to truly hold owners to account.”

Horse owners and the public are also asked to consider their own responsibilities when caring for their animals or giving to rescue charities.

“If you are struggling with horse ownership, reach out to a charity who may be able to help offer support and guidance before the problem spirals out of control,” Mr Owers said.

“We also urge members of the public to give to reputable welfare charities this winter but do your homework. Is the rescue organisation a genuine charity? Do they meet basic welfare standards for the animals they care for? A little consideration before you give can make sure you have the impact you want.”

The report states that owners must recognise the situation, and their role in it, and that welfare organisations should develop educational campaigns to improve care of horses.

It also recommends mandatory licensing of animal welfare establishments, and of breeders, dealers and livery yards.

“Everyone is responsible for fixing the broken system behind poor equine welfare in Britain,” it concludes. “Including owners, breeders, dealers, Government, landowners, local authorities, equine vets and rescue organisations.”

H&H 24 December 2020

You might also be interested in…

‘We all have our part to play in ending the horse crisis’ *H&H Plus*

‘No place for cruelty’: tougher sentences for animal abusers a step closer

“The Bill delivers a strong message to animal abusers that their behaviour will no longer be tolerated”

Calls to rethink turnout measures for horses to benefit their welfare *H&H Plus

Who is responsible for horse welfare in our industry? *H&H Plus*

Severely lame horse left to suffer overnight: abattoir director found guilty

Calls for equine rescue licensing after ‘sanctuary’ welfare prosecution *H&H Plus*

‘In the vast majority of cases, people set up with the best intentions’

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Two emaciated horses rescued from a flooded field, one 100kg underweight and found eating a fence post, have made “great recoveries” – as the owners are banned from keeping equines.

Nybella Stephens, 25, and Gemma Stevens, 36, both formerly of The Millers, Yapton, were sentenced at Brighton Magistrates’ Court in their absence on 27 November. The case was proved in their absence after they also failed to attend an earlier hearing on 18 September.

The court heard RSPCA animal rescue officer Marie Stevens and inspector Cora Peeters attended a field in Shripney Lane, Bognor Regis, where the horses were being kept, in December 2019. They saw a 15-year-old chestnut gelding called Magic eating a wooden fence post as he had nothing to eat.

**Warning: upsetting image**

“Approximately 75% of the field was flooded and the remainder of the field was deep with mud. The hedges and trees had been stripped of their bark by the horses. I couldn’t see any form of ad-lib feeder or hay on the ground,” said Ms Peeters.

“Both Magic, belonging to Stevens, and Lexi, a bay mare belonging to Stephens, were extremely thin and their bony protrusions were clearly visible. A vet attended and confirmed both horses were suffering, to the extent that they were in an emaciated state.”

A spokesman for the RSPCA said Magic had an extremely good appetite and dragged his rescuers to grass as soon as he was removed from the field.

“He weighed 356kg, meaning he was at least 100kg underweight. Lexi weighed 384kg. A thoroughbred of a similar height would be expected to weigh 450-500kg,” he said.

Magic and Lexi were seized by police and removed to a private boarding facility to begin their recovery. When they were weighed again three weeks later, Lexi had gained more than 20kg and Magic 50kg.

Article continued below…

Round-the-clock care for filly rescued with horrific barbed wire injuries

The RSPCA reported that the filly was so severely injured that her tendons were exposed

Woman sentenced after two emaciated ponies and newborn foal put down

“This was a sad case with a tragic outcome resulting in the death of three ponies”

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

“Magic and Lexi, who have both made great recoveries, will be rehomed by World Horse Welfare,” said the spokesman.

Both defendants were found guilty of three offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006; failing to investigate or address the weight loss, failing to provide a suitable diet and failing to provide a suitable living environment.

The pair were banned from keeping equines for 10 years. They were each fined £600 and must pay £425 costs, and a £66 victim surcharge.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Two collapsed, emaciated ponies, along with the premature foal to which one had given birth, had to be put down to end their suffering in a “tragic” welfare case.

Sara Leanne Turner, 36, of Silwood Drive, Branford, was banned from keeping equines for 10 years, at Bradford Magistrates’ Court on 24 November, after pleading guilty to causing unnecessary suffering to two mares by failing to investigate and address the cause of the ponies’ poor bodily condition and weight loss.

**Warning: upsetting image**

The court heard the RSPCA rescued the ponies, named Blue and Willow, in April from a yard at Fagley Road, Bradford, following a call raising concerns about their welfare.

An RSPCA spokesman said on arrival, the charity’s inspectors David Holgate and Kris Walker found the piebald cobs collapsed. One of them had just delivered a premature foal, which had to be put down by a vet shortly afterwards.

Mr Walker said Blue was in an emaciated condition, with her spine, pelvis and ribs visible.

“Blue gave birth to a premature foal but had managed to get to her feet with assistance from the vet and members of the public,” he said.

“The stables were dirty and there was rubbish and hazards covering most of the area. Willow was found collapsed in a stable to the right of the yard and was also in poor body condition.”

Mr Walker said it was “distressing” to see Blue and Willow “in such a poor state”.

“They were taken to a boarding yard but sadly their condition worsened and it was decided that the kindest thing to do was to put them to sleep to end their suffering,” he said.

Article continued below…

‘No justification’ for ‘worst case of neglect’ seen by welfare inspector

The man pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering when he appeared in court last month following the SSPCA investigation

Charity braced for a ‘horse welfare catastrophe’ despite new microchip laws

“Without rigorous enforcement and tough penalties, there is little to stop irresponsible owners continuing to breed and dump animals”

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

“This was a sad case with a tragic outcome resulting in the death of three ponies.”

In mitigation the court heard Turner was struggling with financial difficulties and had entered an early guilty plea.

Turner was sentenced to a 12-month community order for 250 hours of unpaid work, and ordered to pay costs of £300 and a victim surcharge of £85. She was also banned from owning equines for 10 years and cannot appeal to have her ban lifted for three years.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Two donkeys have been put down in the “worst case of neglect” a welfare inspector has seen.

Albert Sauer, 85, of Tangymoil, Kilkenzie, near Campbeltown, pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering under the Animal Welfare Act to eight donkeys when he appeared at Campbeltown Sheriff Court last month.

On 26 March 2019 two Scottish SPCA inspectors attended the defendant’s farm after a member of the public raised concerns about neglect. The inspectors were shown five male donkeys and six females, who were being kept in fields with scrap metal, debris and no shelter.

“Most of them had feet so badly deformed they struggled to walk,” said an SSPCA spokesman. “Some were underweight and had bald patches on their coat. Sauer advised the inspectors the donkeys had not seen a vet for several years.”

The spokesman said the inspectors later returned with Hannah Bryer, head of welfare at the Donkey Sanctuary, two field officers from World Horse Welfare, and vet Suzanne Green of Greenway Equine Veterinary Services. It was concluded the hooves had become so overgrown that some of the donkeys would be unable to bear weight again. The donkeys were also found to be suffering with lice and a worm burden.

“This is without a doubt the worst case of equine neglect I’ve come across,” said SSPCA inspector Yvonne Inglis, who led the investigation.

“Eight of the donkeys had severely overgrown feet that only developed because they had gone untreated for a prolonged period of time. All it would have taken to save these donkeys from months of pain and suffering was regular foot trimming. The state of the hooves led to severe lameness and two having to be put down.”

Ms Inglis said there was “no justification” for allowing the health of the donkeys to deteriorate to that point.

“Thankfully for the other donkeys involved, the Donkey Sanctuary stepped in to offer support and have been providing them with care and treatment in the right environment,” she said. “They are all in a much better, happier place now and we’re proud to work with our welfare partners to do the best we can by every animal we rescue.”

Ms Bryer added cases like these are “extremely distressing” and highlight the “terrible neglect” some donkeys continuing to experience in the UK.

“Owning donkeys is a hugely rewarding experience and a wonderful privilege,” she said. “Donkeys require caring and compassionate management to ensure they lead healthy and enriched lives. They are incredibly stoic animals by their nature, often the true extent of their suffering is misunderstood, however there is no doubt in this case that the suffering and pain endured by these donkeys would have been noticeable to anyone.

“It has been a long process to return the nine donkeys back to full health. All of them required special diets to build their weight back up and they also required farriery and dental treatment.”

Article continued below…

Starving donkeys found living among shards of glass ‘thriving’ since rescue

Donkeys rescued during Storm Dennis from a site strewn with broken glass and barbed are growing in confidence seven months

Elderly donkey stuns staff by recovering from life-threatening illness

‘Donkeys are notorious for hiding any pain or illness extremely well, so we knew we needed to act fast’

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Ms Breyer said the group are now getting used to being handled and will continue to receive the highest level of care and attention they deserve.

In mitigation the court heard Sauer was a caring man who was upset by what happened. He had difficulty in arranging a farrier to attend and believed he was providing care for the donkeys.

He will be sentenced on 15 October.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A year on from a serious attack that lead to a horse being put down, fresh calls are being made for tougher sentences to be introduced for animal abuse. H&H finds out more...

A HORRIFIC attack on a horse has highlighted discrepancies in the law, and the need for tougher sentences for animal abuse.

Owner Tracy Grantham is calling for a specific law for attacks on animals, after her 17-year-old mare Sindy was put down on 29 October 2019 owing to injuries sustained when she was targeted in her field by an intruder.

Sindy’s rug had been removed and her injuries included an 11-inch long slash and a six-inch deep wound to her shoulder, believed to have been caused by a knife. Although Suffolk Police investigated the incident, no one was caught.

Tracy has launched a petition for “Sindy’s law” a year on from the incident, as police told her if anyone was caught, they would be charged with criminal damage.

The law states that an animal may be classed as property, under the Criminal Damage Act, and a charge of criminal damage may be appropriate in the event of the death or injury of an animal – with a maximum sentence available of 10 years’ imprisonment in England and Wales.

Offenders may also be prosecuted under section four (unnecessary suffering) of the Animal Welfare Act, but at present, this only carries a maximum sentence of six months. In Scotland, this was increased to five years in jail on 21 July.

“The law is confusing and it’s not clear. There is Finn’s Law for service animals; it’s black and white, and I believe there should be something similar for when someone actively and deliberately harms and kills other peoples’ animals,” Tracy told H&H.

“It won’t bring Sindy back, but we’re trying to be proactive and want Sindy to be remembered.”

The RSPCA has campaigned alongside other welfare organisations including World Horse Welfare, for the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill which would increase the maximum sentence for offences under the Animal Welfare Act to five years.

The second reading of the Bill at parliament, which has cross-party support but has been postponed a number of times, is scheduled for 23 October.

“This bill has not yet become law. Our rescue teams see heartbreaking acts of animal cruelty every day, cases such as the one involving this poor horse, and we feel increased sentences would act as a proper deterrent,” said an RSPCA spokesman.

Roly Owers, chief executive for World Horse Welfare, told H&H that what happened to Sindy is a “truly horrific case”.

“It is totally understandable that the owner wants to help prevent another horse suffering such outrageous abuse,” he said.

“We believe the Animal Welfare Act is a very good piece of legislation but currently only has a maximum prison sentence of six months, which is clearly not proportionate to the horrendous crime inflicted on Sindy.

“This is why it is so important for the Government to see through their commitment to increase the maximum sentence for animal cruelty in England and Wales to five years.”

H&H 8 October 2020

.

You may also be interested in…

Mare put down after savage knife attack: owner’s call for law change

‘We might never know who did it but we’re trying to be proactive and want Sindy to be remembered. If

Further changes necessary for Animal Welfare Act

A survey on the Animal Welfare Act 2006 finds welfare agencies believe it has “significantly improved” horse wellbeing — but

New measures to prevent equine suffering

The Animal Welfare Act came onto the statute book yesterday, ensuring horse owners will have a legal responsibility to care

Defra issues animal welfare codes for horse owners

Defra has launched its animal welfare codes, including one offering advice for horse owners

Welfare code for horses, ponies and donkeys becomes law

A new code of practice for the welfare of horses, ponies and donkeys comes into force from tomorrow (6 April)

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The RSPCA organised a “lead the debate” session on 19 August. A panel comprising experts in the field discussed the equine crisis and its potential worsening in the event of another recession. H&H was represented on the panel and reports on the debate

THE race is far from over, and the equestrian industry has a collective responsibility to end what can no longer be called a horse crisis.

This was the message from the first “lead the debate” session organised by the RSPCA, on 19 August. A panel comprising journalist and newsreader Victoria Derbyshire, Dragons’ Den star and horse owner Deborah Meaden, RSPCA CEO Chris Sherwood, National Equine Welfare Council (NEWC) chair and Redwings head of behaviour and welfare Nicolas de Brauwere, Elise Pilkington Charitable Trust trustee and World Horse Welfare chief field officer Claire Gordon and RSPCA inspector Kirsty Withnall, as well as representation of H&H, discussed the equine crisis and its potential worsening in the event of another recession.

The speakers agreed that with charities at capacity and the numbers of horses in reported welfare incidents increasing, action has to be on prevention rather than cure, and changing human behaviour, and that it is a collective responsibility.

“At the heart of any campaign or prevention we do has to be the point that every equine is a sentient being, that has feelings and a set of welfare needs, and every equine deserves and absolutely should have a good life,” Mr Sherwood said. “All too often they haven’t had that first chance, and our work is to give them a second one.

“We can’t keep chasing the ambulance with the horse in it; we’ve got to get ahead of the problem.”

Ms Derbyshire had introduced the debate by explaining that the 2008 financial crash had led to the equine crisis, and that the RSPCA is among those expecting the situation to worsen as we emerge from the coronavirus pandemic.

“We’ve got to get ahead of this crisis; we’ve got to end it,” Mr Sherwood said, adding that the situation already costs the RSPCA millions a year, and that this is not sustainable.

“To do that, we have to understand it, and look at how we work together as a sector, what needs to change, and who’s responsible.

“There are some big and difficult questions to answer, and this is the time to face up to them; if we don’t, they’re only going to get more difficult.”

Mr Sherwood said collaboration between different bodies is key and that this is improving, but it will be needed to act once the root causes of the crisis are better understood.

Ms Gordon said, as World Horse Welfare CEO Roly Owers has previously, that the crisis cannot be called such any more.

“A crisis is a moment in time, and we’ve been in this at least 10 years,” she said. “The problem are systemic, and we need to look at where we’re failing horses, to try to start fixing it.”

Ms Gordon cited over-breeding as a cause, and the importance of a robust equine ID system in management, as owners must be held accountable.

Mr de Brauwere likened the situation to that of a bath as the charities’ capacity, and horses pouring in. And while the plughole represents rehoming, “the bath is still overflowing, and we’re trying to find a way of turning the taps off”.

He agreed with Ms Gordon that the problem is systemic, with recent calls typically involving 50, 60 or more horses, and that “every area of the sector needs to do its bit”.

He cited the Animal Welfare and Control of Horses acts as powerful tools, and the Central Equine Database, although this is still in its infancy and enforcement is challenging.

On root causes as well as over-breeding, Ms Meaden believes lack of education and awareness of what keeping a horse involves is key. As it is often cheap to buy the horse, some do so without realising the ongoing and long-term costs such as vets’ bills; abandoned equines are often those who are ill or injured.

Ms Gordon mentioned the link between human and animal welfare; older, frailer owners often struggle to look after horses, while Mr Sherwood said climate change could cause issues, with wet winters and dry summers affecting grazing and forage, and that owners who lose jobs or income in any recession will of course struggle to care for horses more.

Euthanasia was debated; both delaying death as a welfare issue, sometimes owing to cost, and the issue over whether sometimes putting a horse down when it is not critically ill or injured can be the best option for its welfare.

Mr Sherwood said part of the issue is central and local government and authorities not shouldering their responsibilities, often as they do not have the resources, and that this could get worse if public spending is cut. He said he would like RSPCA inspectors to have the power to remove horses without waiting for police, and said there may be a need for funds to bail out small, struggling sanctuaries, as well as to subsidise euthanasia.

“And there’s a need for a much greater focus on prevention, and getting the message out,” he said. “This will take more than equine charities; we need to work with racing and Government to get the message out. Maybe we do need to stop calling it a crisis. We need to remind ourselves this isn’t how it should be, by maybe we need a new name to anchor the prevention strategy.”

Ms Meaden added: “If we don’t speak in a different language, we’ll engage with the same audience. We’ve got to speak in a new language, and in new places, and present it in a different way to how we would to knowledgeable people.”

Mr Sherwood agreed, adding that we need to think about whom we are addressing with these messages, and that the sector must improve how it articulates the narrative and understands the causes, as well as retaining public support.

Ms Gordon and Mr de Brauwere spoke of the importance of driving human behaviour change, and “digging deep” into motivations, both for behaviour and for changing it, and what it really means to be a responsible owner.

“This isn’t a horse crisis as it’s not horses’ fault; it’s a horse owner crisis,” Mr Sherwood said. “We need to give people the right information, and think about how to persuade people to behave in a different way, to get it right for horses.”

Mr de Brauwere added: “The pony left tied to a tree is almost a victim of how most of us, collectively, have chosen to allow the industry to operate. The collective responsibility is for us to understand motivators behind each sector and work with them.”

Mr Sherwood said the narrative used to describe the crisis must be strong, that Government has a role to play, and that questions need to be asked over the role of racing, and working horses.

“We’re talking about changing human behaviour, so equines have a better life,” he said. “We’ve all got a role to play.”

Ms Derbyshire added: “This has all been sobering but ideas have been suggested. Not solutions, but ideas that could lead to them, and that gives me hope.

“There’s a lot to do, but it’s doable.”

Calls to rethink turnout measures for horses to benefit their welfare *H&H Plus

‘Retired horse, free to good home’: H&H asks the tough question…

‘Is this really in the best interests of your horse, or are you simply passing on your problem to someone

Who is responsible for horse welfare in our industry? *H&H Plus*

Long-distance transport for slaughter: the last stop

Read the last of three blogs about H&H's journey across Europe with World Horse Welfare

19 Shire horses abandoned to face a ‘bleak winter’

'Why was such a low value placed on these beautiful animals?’

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The maximum jail tern for animal abusers in Scotland has been increased to five years — as pressure mounts on England to follow suit.

The new legislation was granted royal assent on Tuesday (21 July), which means it has passed all stages to become law. It increases the maximum prison sentence from 12 months to five years.

“The focus now shifts to Westminster and the Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill, which was introduced in February,” said a statement from animal charity Battersea, which campaigned for the law.

“The second reading date for the Bill has been postponed a number of times and is not scheduled until 23 October. This is despite the bill having huge cross-party support, and the government first pledging its support for a change in the law in England and Wales three years ago.

“Together, we’ll make sure that Westminster follows Scotland’s lead. We know the political support is there — it’s time to get this over the line.”

The new Scottish law also means charities can start the rehoming process sooner and encourages sharing of intelligence with authorities to help prevent and address cruelty towards humans. It also incorporates Finn’s Law, which came into force in England and Wales in 2019, and means self-defence can no longer be used as an excuse used by those who harm working animals.

Article continues below…

You might also be interested in:

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Hopes of third time lucky for animal abuse sentencing law

‘We implore the government to clearly show its animal welfare credentials by getting this bill on to the statute book

Law to give police horses greater protection clears final hurdle

Animal Welfare (Service Animals) Act, known as ‘Finn’s Law’ changes how service animals are viewed in the eyes of the

The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill covering England and Wales has been introduced twice previously, but stalled owing to parliamentary reasons. If successful, it will increase maximum prison sentences from six months to five years for the most serious offenders.

It had been scheduled for the report stage in the House of Commons in September 2019, but was dropped owing to the dissolution of parliament in the run-up to the general election.

It was re-introduced as a private member’s bill by West Dorset MP Chris Loder in February this year, with the second reading originally set for 12 June.

But delays as a result of the coronavirus pandemic meant it was again delayed in May to 11 September — and it has now been pushed back yet again to October.

We continue to publish Horse & Hound magazine weekly during the coronavirus pandemic, as well as keeping horseandhound.co.uk up to date with all the breaking news, features and more. Click here for info about magazine subscriptions (six issues for £6) and access to our premium H&H Plus content online.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A man who travelled a Shetland pony in a “highly dangerous” van and allowed the pony to fly-graze on land littered with hazards has appeared in court.

Michael Edward Levy, 32, formerly of The Drive, West End, Southampton – now of Gravel Avenue, Brixham, Devon — was found guilty of two charges under the Animal Welfare Act when he appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on 12 February.

Between 13 April and 19 April 2019 he failed to meet the needs of a dun colt, Shadrack, and a Shetland pony gelding – and on 18 April transported the pony in a manner like to cause injury or unnecessary suffering.

A spokesman for the RSPCA said inspectors were called by the police after Levy allowed the ponies to fly-graze on land at Botley Road, West End, Southampton. Police body-camera footage recorded the pony being unloaded by Levy from a white van on 18 April, and while Mr Levy denied the pony was transported in the van to the RSPCA, the footage was shown in court.

RSPCA inspector Tina Ward said in the back of the van was a narrow gap where the pony had been standing.

“He had been travelling with a rope headcollar on that was loose. There were no windows giving light or ventilation, no partition to support the pony’s body, which is particularly important,” she said.

“If the pony was to lose its balance when the vehicle went round a corner or stopped suddenly, he could have injured himself significantly.”

Ms Ward added where the pony had been standing was a number of items including a tin of paint and metal ladders.

“These also had the potential to cause the pony serious injury had he had fallen over. The method of transporting the pony was highly dangerous and would have also caused significant distress,” she said.

The spokesman added when welfare inspectors attended the land it was found to be “littered” with a number of hazards, and did not have clean water or shelter.

“A metal gate between two paddocks was hanging off its hinges,” said Ms Ward. “The paddock also had a hidden dangerous hazard; a cesspit covered by grass and rubble.

Article continued below… 

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

More than 40 horses removed from flooded fields in major rescue mission

Members of the public had been concerned about the horses’ welfare

One-eyed pony rescued from sanctuary seeks new home

The charity said the gelding is a ‘cheeky chap’ who is ‘full of fun’

“There were rusting metal and car parts as well as partly buried plastic blue piping. All of these had the potential to cause serious harm and injury.”

In mitigiation Levy said he had to move the pony from grazing with only 24 hours’ notice. He felt there was adequate water and that the hazards did not pose a risk.

Levy was banned from keeping equines for six months and fined £200. He must pay a £33 victim surcharge and £1,000 costs.

Would you like to read Horse & Hound¹s independent journalism without any adverts? Join Horse & Hound Plus today and you can read all articles on HorseandHound.co.uk completely ad-free

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A man who refused to look after his horses when they were suffering from skin infections has been banned from keeping equines for five years.

Perparim Tahiraj, 48, of Williamson Drive, Helensburgh, was found guilty of one charge under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 for failing to provide a suitable environment, adequate diet and protection from suffering injury and disease in relation to five horses.

The SSPCA attended a field in Helensburgh in December 2018 where Tahiraj had kept five horses throughout the year without the landowner’s permission.

SSPCA inspector Gillian Dick said: “Tahiraj is well known to the SSPCA; we have had countless dealings with him and removed animals from his care a number of times. We tried on several occasions to provide him with guidance and advice on how to care for his animals.

“Tahiraj did not have permission to graze his horses on the land and had effectively been fly-grazing within the field and surrounding grass area since January 2018.”

Ms Dick said Tahiraj stated on 24 December 2018 he would no longer attend to his horses or provide feed for them.

“We asked him to sign the horses over in to our care, which he refused to do,” she said.

“When we attended the horses we discovered them all to be underweight and in poor body condition. Four of the five were suffering from skin infections, which needed veterinary treatment.”

Ms Dick added the field provided inadequate grazing and little appropriate shelter from adverse weather conditions.

“The horses were exposed to poisonous rhododendron bushes and discarded fencing material,” she said.

“In one corner of the field, the fence was broken and taped up, which was not suitable to contain the horses from the nearby busy road.”

Tahiraj was banned from keeping equines for five years.

Article continued below… 

26 horses removed from rescue centre after owner allowed equines to suffer

One horse had to be put down and another had to have his eye removed after the woman who ran

Tiny pony dumped to die leaves legacy to help other horses

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

“We welcome this sentence,” said Ms Dick. “Tahiraj was not capable of meeting the most basic of needs for the horses in his care. We hope this sentence makes Tahiraj consider his ability to look after any animal in the future,” said Ms Dick.

“We are happy to report the horses survived their ordeal and have now found new homes with responsible owners who will be able to give them the care Tahiraj failed to provide.”

The court heard Mr Tahiraj was suffering from health complications, and claimed he had bought skin cream for the horses.

Would you like to read Horse & Hound¹s independent journalism without any adverts? Join Horse & Hound Plus today and you can read all articles on HorseandHound.co.uk completely ad-free

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now