Victims of loose horses in Harrow, which regularly trample a golf course, gardens, farmland and sports fields, could finally see an end to two years of misery. Harrow Council has now issued an order threatening to impound the horses.
Up to 40 horses have been kept illegally on land in Old Redding, Harrow, Middlesex. The council has tried to have them seized under the Animals Act 1971, but their efforts have been in vain since no one will admit to ownership.
“Our biggest fear is that a motorist will run into a horse,” said a council spokesman.
The horses live on land owned by the council and other land belonging to a family that has no connection to the horses.
On 28 January, horses were found grazing on Grims Dyke golf course in Oxhey Lane — where they frequently interrupt play.
“Something has to be done,” said club secretary Ron Jones. “Last year, we had to have the 17th green completely rebuilt after they got in, which cost us £30,000.”
On the same day, council officers installed posters warning that the horses would be seized unless they were claimed within two weeks.
In 2007, H&H reported that Harrow Council won a two-year injunction against husband and wife Nathan and Tina Jordan of Oxhey Lane, Hertfordshire, who had been illegally grazing up to 75 horses on 200 acres of land in the same area (news, 15 November 2007).
The council won full costs (£18,000) and the couple could face prison if they breach the order. The Jordans deny ownership of the horses at the centre of the current breakouts.
This article was first published in Horse & Hound (12 February, ’09)
