Ponies removed from field amid welfare fears

The RSCPA has launched an investigation after four ponies were removed from a field in Hull due to concerns for their welfare.

Officers from the charity said the ponies were found in a "hazardous living environment" on land near Campbell Court on 3 February after the owner had failed to respond to an urgent request to get in touch.

The two cob mares and their foals were all underweight, with no grazing or supplementary feed. Bottles, rubbish and broken glass were strewn across the field, a spokesperson said.

One of the foals was found trapped in thick overgrown brambles and had to be cut free, they added.

RSPCA inspector Laura Barber said: "It was clear these animals, two of whom were particularly young and vulnerable, could not stay like this.

"Their environment was hazardous and their most basic needs were not being met."

She added: "It's possible, of course, that they had been left at this location and the owner was not intending to come back.

"We're really hoping someone in the local area may recognise these ponies or have information which could help our ongoing enquiries."

The ponies were being cared for at a private facility on behalf of the RSPCA, and were progressing well, the charity said.

The charity, World Horse Welfare, was also involved in the rescue.

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