A HORSE had to be put down after a driver struck it on a rural road.

Police are appealing for witnesses after the Fiat 500 driver hit the horse on the A259.

Vets had to be called to the incident after the equine was injured, but it could not be saved.

The rider of the horse and the driver did not suffer injury, Sussex Policesaid.

Now the force has appealed for any witnesses to the incident at 9.40am on Friday (February 26) on the A259 Winchelsea Road at Guestling, near Hastings.

The road had to be closed in both directions and reopened at 11.30am.

Sussex Police said: “We are appealing for witnesses to a collision between a car and a horse in Guestling.

The crash happened on the A259 at Guestling. Google Map picture

The crash happened on the A259 at Guestling. Google Map picture

“Officers were called to reports of a collision between a Fiat 500 and a horse on the A259 Winchelsea Road.

“The horse was sadly injured and had to be put down at the scene by a vet in attendance. No injuries were reported to the horse’s rider or the driver of the car.

“The road was closed in both directions while emergency services dealt with the matter. It was reopened shortly after 11.30am.”

Anyone who witnessed the collision, or who may have any dash cam footage is asked to contact Sussex Police or call 101 quoting serial 313 of 26/02.