There has been a shocking increase in the number of horses being rescued by the RSPCA.

Countrywide, the charity experienced a 55% rise last year and, as a result, is looking after hundreds of neglected and abused horses, donkeys and ponies. Currently, it cares for 850 horses, taking in three every day.

It has put it down to the equine crisis, which the RSPCA says has come about due to the downturn in the economy.

RSPCA inspector and national equine co-ordinator Cathy Hyde said: “For several years now we as a charity have been picking up the pieces of the equine crisis, with our inspectors being called out to sick, injured, neglected or cruelly treated horses every single day. And despite our best efforts the crisis is not getting any better.

“Last year we took in 979 horses which was a 55 per cent increase on the year before.”