THE owner of a tiny Shetland pony whose mane and tail were hacked off has branded the culprits 'sick’.

Two-year-old Trigger, who only stands 32ins tall, was attacked on two occasions in his field at Chartham Hatch, near Canterbury.

The first time his tail was chopped off, just below his tail bone. A week later he was attacked again. This time his mane and forelock were hacked off.

Trigger’s owner Karen Rumley has since stepped up security at her smallholding in Denstead Lane.

The bizarre night-time attacks have left her puzzled and angry. She said: “Although Trigger was not injured he was very clingy after both attacks.

“The only reasons I can think of are the people who did this were under the influence of drink or drugs or they have a gripe with me or my family. If that’s the case they should come and talk to me, not take it out on a defenceless animal. They are sick.”

She is terrified there will be a third attack: “The police cannot shed any light and no other horses in the area have been attacked.”

Mrs Rumley reported the crimes to the police and officers are appealing for information. The first attack happened on the night of Friday, September 15, and the second exactly a week later.

Anyone with information should call case officer Janice Goldsmith on 01227 868340 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.