POLICE have launched an appeal to find out who is responsible for a series of horrific attacks on horses across West Surrey over the last six months.

The most recent of six attacks took place in a field in West Clandon.

Other attacks have taken place in Frensham, Shackleford, Dunsfold, Clandon and in April, a two-year-old male horse was attacked at a farm in Jumps Road, Churt, leaving it with a 50 cm long deep gash to its side.

Detective Constable Lorna Windus, who is leading the investigation, said: ÒWe have recently suffered a number of serious attacks on horses, which have left many of the animals with serious injuries and, on some occasions, in the horse having to be put down.

ÒWe are aware that similar incidents have taken place and not reported to the police. Similar offences have also occurred in Thames Valley and Sussex.

ÒIt is believed the injuries are being caused by a bladed instrument and that the offenders are carrying tit-bits, such as sugar cubes or peppermints, to bribe the horses.Ó

Anyone with any information is asked to contact DC Windus on 0845 125 2222 or Betty Cabrol at Surrey Action for Equine (SAFE) on 01420 487625.