POLICE say no action will be taken against the driver involved in an accident in which four New Forest ponies were killed.
A Land Rover Discovery was being driven along Roger Penny Way when it hit the ponies, which are believed to have been licking freshly-laid salt on the road.
Three of the animals were killed instantly and the fourth died from its injuries a few minutes later.
The driver was travelling at less than 40mph - the speed limit on all unfenced roads in the Forest. Reports say the accident happened after he was blinded by the headlights of an oncoming vehicle.
It happened near the entrance to Roundhill car park shortly after 9pm on New Year's Eve.
A police spokesman said: "A black Land Rover Discovery collided with four horses on the B0379 near Brook.
"Sadly, as a result of the collision, the horses died as a result of their injuries.
"The driver of the vehicle was spoken to at the scene, and having carried out a thorough investigation, no further action was taken against him."
Rural Policing Inspector Korine Bishop added: “This was a tragic incident which resulted in the death of four New Forest horses.
“This is a timely reminder to the residents of, and those driving through, the New Forest to be aware of your surroundings.
"There is a maximum speed limit of 40mph across the area, and motorists are advised to adapt their speed to the driving conditions.”
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