Foal's body found dumped in woods

Police are investigating the death of a foal which was found dumped on a bridle path in a Hampshire woodland.

The three-month-old colt had a cord tied around one of its rear legs which is thought to have been used to drag it from a vehicle.

It was found by a walker on a path off Woodhouse Lane, Botley, at about 1325 GMT on Thursday.

Hampshire Constabulary said the animal showed no signs of external injury. The force has appealed for witnesses.

Sgt Louise Hubble, from the force's Countrywatch team, said: "There is no doubt that a vehicle was used to convey the foal to the location, and it is our belief that the offender used the cord to drag the animal from a vehicle.

"We therefore appeal to anyone who was in the area of Woodhouse Lane during the 24-hours between mid-day on Wednesday and mid-day Thursday, and saw a vehicle drive on to or off the bridleway, to contact us."