Calls are being made to improve living conditions for a herd of horses in Ashford.

Concern for the animals in the field opposite the John Lewis at Home shop were raised last month when they escaped and ran into a busy road.

The RSPCA was called and found that fence panels were missing and that their environment was less than ideal.

Shopper Pat King said she also feared for the animal’s welfare when she spotted them after leaving the shop, in Fougeres Way, with a friend last week.

Mrs King, from near Dover, said: “What concerns me is that the land is very scrubby and it doesn’t look as if there’s much, if any, pasture for the horses to graze on.

“I couldn’t see any feed in the field and it was impossible to know if there was any water.

“One brown and white horse looked very thin; you could see its ribs." - Pat King

“One brown and white horse looked very thin; you could see its ribs."

It is not known who owns the land or horses, but there are around 14 in the field.

RSPCA spokeswoman Katya Mira said: “The RSPCA was called about concerns about the foals in Fougeres Way, Ashford in July after they escaped, and went to check on them.

“The environment was not ideal, and there were some issues with missing fencing, but in general the horses were in good condition and had plenty of grazing.

“We will continue to monitor the horses in this area and make sure they are all right, and urge anyone with any concerns to call us and let us know on 0300 1234 999."

Full story in this week's Kentish Express.