A HORSE suffered serious legs injuries and had to be put down in an attack its owners branded “deliberate.”

Police are investigating after the horse called George, belonging to Luke Welfare and Zoe Walker who run Soul Equestrian at Scrase Farm, Pulborough, was found entangled in an electric fence.

It was discovered lying on the ground in a field Blackgate Lane on Tuesday, September 9, with fencing wrapped tightly around its left fore and hind legs. The incident caused irreparable injuries to both legs and George had to be destroyed a few days later.

Ms Walker said: “At first we thought it was just an unfortunate accident where George had got himself tangled up in the fence.

"However, the number of times that the fence line was wrapped around each foot aroused our suspicions and we called the police.

"Unfortunately, the line was so tight that it cut off circulation to both feet and the vet was unable to save them or ultimately, George."

PC Jonny Walker said: "There's no apparent reason why this horse or these stables should have been targeted in this isolated incident, but we would like to hear from anyone who has any information about the incident or who has experienced anything similar.

"Blackgate Lane is fairly remote, but were you around the area at any time from late afternoon or overnight on Monday, September 8 and if so did you see anything suspicious?

"If so, please email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101 quoting 1096 of 18/09."