Event horse euthanised after arson attack

An event horse has been put to sleep after being badly burned in a suspected arson attack.

‘Heartbreaking decision’

Brindy had been receiving veterinary treatment over the past month, and it was hoped she would make a full recovery. However, the decision was made to euthanise her on Tuesday (8 December), after she took a turn for the worse.

“We have taken the heartbreaking decision to put Brindy to sleep,” said Emily Pope, Brindy’s owner. “She had begun to go down hill over the weekend and it became increasingly obvious that we could not manage her pain relief. It would have been cruel to prolong her life any longer.”

Heartbreaking

Burglars broke into the yard on Newtown Common Farm, near Burghclere in Hampshire on 11 November around 2.30am. They stole £12,000 worth of equipment and then set fire to their horsebox, which spread through the tackroom and into the stable block, causing serious damage.

Emily and her mother Sophie were woken by the sound of the fire and managed to rescue their horses.

However, Brindy suffered extensive burns all over her back, while Emily’s old dressage pony also had minor burns when the fire spread into her stable.

‘Bright future’

Hampshire police believe the thieves may have started the fire in an attempt to cover their tracks.

“Although it is not clear why the horse truck was set on fire it does not appear it was the offenders’ intention to cause injury to the horses,’” said detective constable Alex Hall.

Emily has another two-star event horse Kelsons Lottery, who she has competed at top events including Gatcombe and Barbury. She had owned eight-year-old Brindy for three years and was competing her at BE100.

“She had a bright future and we were hoping to move her up to BE Novice next season,” Emily told H&C. “She was such a beautiful, brave girl.”

‘Be vigilant’

Police are still looking for those involved andare appealing for information.

“This type of offence is extremely rare,” saidHall.“Nevertheless I would urge horse owners to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity in their local area.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact detective constable Alex Hall at Basingstoke police station on the non emergency number 101, quoting 44150392524. Or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.