Tack thieves target drivers
7 January 2002
Derbyshire scurry driving team are the latest victims of tack theft
The theft of around £5,000 worth of tack and harness last Friday evening (4 January) has left a Derbyshire-based scurry driving team unable to prepare their ponies for the forthcoming season.
Among the items stolen from Robert and Pat Lightwood’s yard near Burton-on- Trent, Derbys, was a unique small pony pairs scurry harness made of heavy horse leather and a range of specialist pony driving bits.
Pat Lightwood said: “The thieves emptied the entire tack room but only seemed to want the leather work and bits. They left the clippers, travelling gear and rugs – I expect the stolen tack andharness is already out of the country.
“As well as the harness, they took my Welsh Cob’s GP saddle and double bridle, plus other odds and ends. “
Robert, who was top novice scurry driver in 2000, was intending to compete four pairs on ponies on the scurry circuit this season.
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“There has not been any other tack thefts in this area, although a number of rugs were stolen off horses’ backs while out grazing in central Derbyshire prior to Christmas,” said a Derbyshire Police spokesperson. “It is unlikely that the two incidents are linked.”
If you have any information call (tel: 01332 290100) and ask for Swadlingcote police station.
Click here for expert advice on protecting your tack from thieves.
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Carol is an experienced journalist and editor, who is also a passionate amateur rider and dedicated horse owner, having ridden since childhood. She has a particular interest in the emotional well-being and ethical training of horses, alongside veterinary matters, having garnered extensive first-hand experience of numerous equine health conditions through more than 30 years of horse ownership.