THE number of ponies and cattle dying on New Forest roads is on the rise again.

Nearly twice as many animals were killed or maimed in traffic collisions in the first half of this year compared to the same period of 2012.

Forty-one animals died or were injured between January and June – up from 24 last year.

It has led to Forest authorities making an impassioned plea for drivers to take care to prevent more tragedies.

New Forest Verderers clerk Sue Westwood said: “Drivers must take more care.”

Drivers are urged to slow down – especially at night when cars are approaching with headlights – and always give animals grazing at the roadside a wide berth.