'Disturbing' horse attacks probed

Lass, one of the horses who had her tail cut

A series of attacks on horses in Aberdeenshire are being investigated by police.

There have been at least 12 incidents in the Laurencekirk area over the last few months where horses have had hair cut from their tails and manes.

The attacks began in January, and the most recent was earlier this month.

Grampian Police said the attacks were "disturbing" and appealed for the local community to be vigilant in an attempt to halt the culprits.

Escalation concern

All of the attacks have taken place in darkness, with the fields and horses surrounding Balhagerty Farm in Laurencekirk targeted.

Sgt Kenny McGeough, who is leading the investigation, said: "Although no animal has been physically injured, I am extremely concerned that the attacks will continue and escalate in violence.

"It is therefore imperative that members of the local communities work alongside Grampian Police to prevent this behaviour and identify those responsible.

"I appeal for any person who may have any information regarding the identity of those responsible, or who may know the whereabouts of the horsehair, to contact the police."