Warning: graphic image below

Five horses have been taken into the care of the RSPCA after a sixth animal was found dead in a field.

The RSPCA attended a field off Forstal Lane, in Loose, on Saturday after receiving several calls from concerned members of public.

The emaciated mare had looked poorly for several days, but was already dead when the RSPCA arrived.

The police and a vet were summoned.

Because of concern for the welfare of the other horses they were taken away by the animal charity, which said it was now investigating whether there were grounds for a criminal prosecution of the animals' owners.