Bailiffs take away horses

People have been injured after horses have broken free

Horses left tethered on public land are to be taken away by bailiffs and owners will have to pay to get them back.

Councillors in Sandwell, West Midlands, have taken the action to tackle the problems of horses left tethered in public parks and by the side of the road.

The action comes after complaints by some residents who have been injured by the animals.

The move, under which unclaimed horses will be given to new owners, has the support of the RSPCA.

We've had cases of horses whose feet have been frozen in waterlogged ground

Councillor Bob Badham

The scheme means horses found illegally grazing will be taken away by bailiffs and owners will have to pay before they are returned.

Councillor Bob Badham, who put forward the idea, said the cost could be "considerable" to cover transportation and stabling of animals.

"These animals are a nuisance and are dangerous. When they break free these horses roam about.

"We had a case of a horse running down a main road and people have been kicked and bitten.

"It is very intimidating for young mothers with children in pushchairs and for old people. People have the right to use public spaces and not feel intimidated."

Coun Badham claimed many of the animals in the borough also suffered from neglect.

"We have cases of horses whose feet have been frozen in waterlogged ground and people have broken the ice so the horses can move."

Jo Cunningham, spokeswoman for the RSPCA in the Midlands, said: "If this is going to encourage people to care of their animals properly then it's got to be a good thing.

"We would want people who buy a horse to find a field to keep it in."