Attempt to set pony on fire in Syke

Date published: 16/01/2006

Police are appealing for information after someone attempted to set fire to a 9-year-old girl's pony in Syke, Rochdale.

The 9-year-old's aunt had tended to 3-year-old 'Polo' and several other ponies at the stables on Brookdale at 5.30am on Thursday 12 January 2006 before leaving for work.

When she returned to the stables at 4pm she found that someone had attempted to set fire to the pony's leg. The pony, a Welsh Section A Palomino, suffered singed fur and burn marks to the left rear leg, which required veterinary attention.

Amanda WALTERS, the 9-year-old's aunt, said:

"My niece got Polo as a Christmas present this year and adores spending time with him. She is heartbroken by what has happened.

"I was totally shocked when I realised that someone had tried to set fire to Polo on purpose. I can't believe that someone could be so callous to a defenceless animal.

" Polo had been involved in an accident where he was hit by a van about six months before Christmas. He was still recovering from this when these thugs have tried to set fire to him.

"Despite everything that he has been through Polo still has a wonderful temperament. He really does have the patience of a saint with my niece.

"I hope that someone can help police identity the people responsible for this sickening attack."

Anyone who saw anything suspicious around the stables during the day to contact police on 0161 856 8522 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.