Horse abandoned on Epsom church ground (From Your Local Guardian)

Horse abandoned on Epsom church ground

8:00am Friday 17th February 2012 in Epsom By Sophia Sleigh

A mystery horse has been abandoned on church ground.

The male horse, which is known as Barry or Champion, has been left to "fly graze" in Ruxley Lane on land which is owned by Ruxley Church.

The horse which appeared on Boxing Day morning has drawn the attention of concerned neighbours, the RSPCA and the police and even has his own Facebook page.

Reverend Stuart Thomas of Ruxley Church said: "It was a secure site, so whoever put it there trespassed.

"I know many people have rung the RSPCA and are worried about its welfare.

"As far as I am aware the veterinary advice is it’s in reasonable health."

However, he warned that it is becoming a little overweight due to well intentioned passers by feeding it inappropriate food.

Rev Stuart Thomas said as a Christian church they rejoice in creation and will take steps to ensure the welfare of the animal.

Emma Nutbrown, spokeswoman for the Diocese of Guildford which owns the land said: "Building work is due to start very soon on the site and clearly it isn’t ideal to have a pony there.

"The animal’s welfare is of great concern to all and the church is taking advice as how to best proceed from here.

"Ruxley Church has waited a long time for a new home and we hope this matter will be resolved as soon as possible."

An RSPCA inspector visited the horse on Thursday, February 2 and left a note asking people not to feed the horse.

The letter requests that the person responsible for the animal call the RSPCA as a matter of urgency.

No-one has yet come forward despite the horse receiving fresh bales of hay.

Police officers are working with partner agencies and the local authority to establish who the owner of the horse is.

Anyone with information about who the horse belongs to should contact the Epsom and Ewell Safer Neighbourhood Team on 101.

Do you know whose horse it is? Call the newsdesk on 0208 722 6346 or email newsdesk@epsomguardian.co.uk