Shropshire horse owners warned over mane plaiting
Police in Shropshire are warning horse owners to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity to their animals, such as plaiting their manes.
The warning follows a report that Wellington police received from one resident who noticed their ponies mane had been plaited. It is believed thieves will plait the manes of the horses they want to steal so when they return with transport their target is easily identified.
Pcso Morris Brookes, of West Mercia Police, said: "We received a report from a member of the public the other week telling us that their ponies mane had been plated, and there has also been a report in another region of a similar incident.
"It is believed that this method is used by thieves to mark a horse or pony that they wish to take as their own. So far we have received no further information with regards to this but encourage people to stay vigilant."
Sarah Lynch, of West Mercia Police, said they had not yet received any reports of horses being stolen once manes had been braided, but that horse owners should remain vigilant.
Meanwhile the number of horses being abandoned on the side of roads is soaring and rescue centres are at crisis point, with many animal charities and rural organisations calling on the Government to strengthen the law and protect horses.
Andy Robbins, spokesman for the RSPCA, said: "I would encourage people to make sure they have their animals microchipped."
