THE RSPCA are appealing for information, after a "skeletal" pony was put down after a “horrific case of neglect”.

Despite the best efforts of vets, the male chestnut yearling was in such an emaciated state that it had to be put to sleep.

The charity was called to Barbe Baker Avenue in West End on Monday by a member of the public who was concerned about the state of the tethered animal.

RSPCA Inspector Graham Hammond said: "This poor horse was in an almost skeletal state – it was heart-breaking to see.

“He had been left tethered for god knows how long without any food – a really horrific case of utter neglect.

“We took him to a vet but there was nothing we could do to save him so the kindest thing was to put him to sleep.

“If anyone has any information about this pony and where he came from, and how he came to be in such a horrible state, please let us know.”

Anyone with information about the pony is urged to contact Inspector Hammond on the RSPCA’s information line on 0300 1238018.