'Sick' attacks on Shetland pony

Trigger was targeted in two separate attacks while in his field

A Shetland pony had its mane and tail hacked off in two separate attacks in a field in Kent.

Two-year-old Trigger had his tail chopped off close to the bone, and his mane chopped at random.

It is thought the attackers got into his field at Chartham Hatch, near Canterbury, by climbing over a fence.

Owner Karen Rumley said: "When you can't fight back...it's not fair. Physically he's not hurt as such, but mentally, it's probably affected him."

The family has several animals and described the night-time attacks as "sick".

Security has now been tightened following the incidents.

The first attack happened on the night of 15 September, and the second a week later.

RSPCA inspector Colin Kirkwood said he found it sickening that people could do such things to defenceless animals.