Police called in after gang targets horse rugs in West Yorkshire

A number of reports have been received where rugs used to keep the animals warm have been stolen.

Bradford South Horse Watch Co-ordinator PCSO Julie Hansord is calling on owners to be extra vigilant:

"These thieves are looking for easy opportunities to remove these items with a view to selling them on.

"The coats are not cheap to replace and are invaluable to the horses which would suffer during freezing temperatures if they were to be left without it.

"Many of the animals do not have other shelter and rely upon the warmth they provide.

"Some of the rugs have been marked with postcodes and have been secured to the horse with a padlock, however; they are still being removed.

"In particular, I have recently received a report from one of the Bradford Horse Watch members who has had eleven of the rugs taken.

"Most of these were marked with the postcode BD12 some were distinctive with cow print and an apple print.

"We are doing everything we can to trace those responsible and I am calling for any witnesses to these incidents or anyone with information to contact the police immediately.

"Likewise, if you are offered a horse rug, please check for any markings and contact the police it you believe the circumstances to be suspicious.

"I would suggest that where possible, owners regularly monitor their horses if they rely upon the use of a rug.

"It is important that we put a stop to this and ensure the welfare of these horses."

If you can help officers in their investigations, please contact police on 0845 6060606 or Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.