Two stolen miniature horses reunited with owner: Charlton Road, Shepperton
(TW17 - Wednesday, 20 January, 2010)

A Spelthorne man has been reunited with two miniature horses which were stolen from an address in Shepperton last month.

The miniature horses, named Tinkerbell and Bailey, who are between two and three feet tall, were taken from stables in Charlton Road between 6.30pm on Tuesday 29 December and 6.45am on Wednesday 30 December.

The offenders opened the main entrance gate to gain access to the site before stealing the two horses.

Following numerous media appeals, and a thorough and extensive investigation by Surrey Police, the horses were located in a public park in Kent and returned to their owner on Tuesday 19 January.

Police in Spelthorne are appealing for witnesses and information after two distinctive and valuable miniature horses were stolen from an address in Shepperton earlier this week.

The incident took place between 6.30pm on Tuesday 29 December and 6.45am on Wednesday 30 December when the animals were taken from an address in Charlton Road.

The offenders opened the main entrance gate to gain access to the site before stealing the two horses.

The smaller horse is described as:

• grey and brown
• wearing a red rug with gold around the neck

The larger horse is described as:

• grey
• a pink nose
• black and brown mane with a white patch on the upper back
• also white lower legs.

Both horses are described as being between two and three feet in height.

Detective Constable Chris Ewan, who is leading the investigation, said:

"This was a calculated offence where two much-loved and valuable animals have been stolen by a group of cynical offenders.

"This burglary has been extremely upsetting for the owners of the horses and we are doing everything possible to get both animals returned as quickly as possible.

"We have not ruled out the possibility that there may have been several offenders involved in this incident and there is good chance they would have used a vehicle to transport the horses.

"I would like to hear from anyone who saw a suspicious vehicle, probably a van or lorry, in the Charlton Road area on either Tuesday evening or the early hours of Wednesday morning.

"I would also like to hear from anyone who has been approached about purchasing a miniature horse as these animals are rare and very identifiable.

"This was clearly a planned offence and I feel certain that someone in the local area knows who is responsible for this burglary and the current location of the horses.

"I would urge that person to contact Surrey Police immediately.

"I can assure Shepperton residents that everything possible is being done to bring these cowardly offenders to justice."

Anyone who witnessed the incident or with any information should contact DC Ewan at Staines CID on 0845 125 2222.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Charlton Road
Shepperton
Middlesex
TW17