A miniature horse stolen from a barn has been reunited with its owner.

One-year-old Winnie, a piebald mare who stands just three feet high, was snatched during a break-in at a property in Monks Horton, near Folkestone, at the end of last month.

A police investigation and media campaign ensued, with Winnie’s worried owner Cara Hamilton circulating details of her beloved horse within the equine community.

According to police, she received a call last Thursday to say Winnie had been spotted in Aylesham.

Following a search of woodland and bridal paths by PC Dave McGuinness and his team, Winnie was found by PC Matt Lehman tethered to a stake in a bridal path in Aylesham.

Mrs Hamilton said: “I’m delighted to get Winnie back safe and well and would like to thank Kent Police for their help.

“Winnie is in good health, although a little bit fat. Miniature horses require a special diet to keep them fit, but no doubt we will soon be able to get her back in shape.”

PC McGuinness added: “It was fortunate that Winnie had been micro-chipped so we could identify her easily.

“I would urge people to consider chipping all valuable pets and animals.”