A HORSE suffered severe burns in a suspected arson attack and burglary in Hampshire.

Police have launched an investigation after the animal was seriously injured when offenders broke into a tack store near Birghclere and stole items worth £12,000 before setting fire to a horse truck.

Nine saddles and bridles were taken and the blaze spread to a nearby stable, causing significant damage.

The horses were rescued from the stable but one was seriously burned on its back.

Detective Constable Alex Hall said: “This type of offence is extremely rare.

“Although it is not clear why the horse truck was set on fire it does not appear it was the offenders’ intention to cause injury to the horses.

“Nevertheless I would urge horse owners to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity in their local area.”

The incident happened at the farm at Newton Common, near Burghclere, between 2.30am and 3.30am on Wednesday, November 11.

Anyone with information is asked to contact DC Hall on 101 and quote reference number 44150392524, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.