A NORTH Hampshire man has been jailed and banned from keeping horses after his two Shetland ponies were found in a terrible state.

Alan Sycklemoore's ponies Tia and Zoe were found in a paddock to the rear of the 54-year-old's house with severely overgrown hooves, following a visit by equine officers from Hampshire Constabulary.

Aldershot magistrates heard that police received a report that the animals were seen lying on the ground behind a house in Hartley Lane, Hartley Wespall, Hook, on January 14 this year.

When officers attended the scene, due to the seriousness of the ponies' condition, a vet and a RSPCA officer were called.

Both ponies were given a slim chance of recovery if they received immediate protection and care.

Hampshire Constabulary took possession of the two ponies to ensure they were immediately removed and taken to a place of safety where they could receive treatment.

After a number of weeks' rehabilitation, both ponies were transferred into the care of the World Horse Welfare (WHW) centre at Glenda Spooner Farm (GSF) in Ross-on-Wye, while the investigation continued.

Although both ponies showed initial improvement and Zoe made a full recovery, Tia had to be put down to prevent further suffering.

Sycklemoore, who pleaded guilty to two counts of cruelty to animals, was jailed for three months and banned from keeping horses for 15 years.

Equine liaison officer Pc Stacy Beale, from the Hook Safer Neighbourhoods team, said: "I am happy with the end result of this case, although extremely saddened that, despite all of the fighting from everyone involved in this case, Tia's life was lost as a result of ignorance.

RSPCA inspector Kerri Swinfield added: "As an animal welfare organisation, it is very sad that we couldn't help these ponies and owner sooner."

For further information, contact your local Hampshire equine liaison officer on 0845 045 4545 or visit www.hampshire.police.uk /internet/rural/hampshirehorsewatch