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Shire horse foal shot on remote Rossendale farm (From Lancashire Telegraph)
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Shire horse foal shot on remote Rossendale farm
5:20pm Wednesday 15th April 2009
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- By Peter Magill » Burnley chief reporter
A SEVEN-month-old prize-winning foal was shot in the face by a sadistic intruder at a remote East Lancashire farm, police have revealed.
Young shire horse Cara was being sheltered by her mother when it is believed she was blasted with a shotgun at close range, at Buckhurst Farm, near Ramsbottom.
The marksman broke into a secure compound at the isolated complex, in Buckhurst Road, before approaching Cara’s stable.
Veterinary experts fear the foal, which was exhibited recently at the prestigious Peterborough Show, may be left with long-term breathing and feeding difficulties.
Police are hoping that ramblers, mountain bikers or riders might hold the key to the burglar’s identity after neighbours did not report any suspicious activity around the time of the attack, overnight on Thursday and Friday.
The site, which is also popular as a petting farm, is in a relatively isolated location and is only accessible along narrow country lanes.
Det Sgt Nikki Bithell, of Rossendale CID, said: “This was a heinous crime which has left a defenceless animal with horrific injuries.
“The motive for the attack is not known as this stage but we are following up several lines of enquiry.
“We believe that this was an isolated attack, and other horse owners are at risk.”
The foal is being treated at Liverpool University’s veterinary hospital and farm managers are anxiously waiting to hear about Cara’s condition.
Sgt Bithell said: “I am appealing for anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious around the time of the attack to come forward.
“We need to catch the person responsible for this terrible atrocity which has left this foal maimed.
“Its trust of humans will, without doubt, be affected, possibly for life.”
People with any information are being asked to call Rossendale CID on 01706 237347 or alternatively, to call Crimestoppers, in confidence on 0800 555 111.
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Your Say YourTelegraph
Old Timer, Burnley says...
7:36pm Wed 15 Apr 09
This is a crime against man's best working friend now long forgotten and I hope everyone helps in bringing this horrible person to justice.
TinaWeez, Edge of the Earth says...
9:40am Thu 16 Apr 09
Briank1966, Haslingden says...
9:20pm Fri 17 Apr 09
disgusted tunbridge wells, rossendale says...
3:36pm Tue 21 Apr 09
I assume this is wrong and there's a story behind this sickening episode?
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gilly1974, haslingden says...
6:01pm Wed 15 Apr 09