A TEENAGE horse owner has been left heartbroken after thieves stole the five-year-old pet bred for him by his late father.

James Smith’s black and white mare, Lady, was the last gift he received from his father, Walter, before he died five years ago.

The horse was last seen in her field at Eldon Lane, near Bishop Auckland, last Tuesday and James has spent hours scouring nearby woods trying to find her.

He believes she has been stolen and has told police.

His mother, Loreen, said her son was devastated.

She said: “He is heartbroken.

She was a lovely horse who had won prizes at shows and James’ dad told him a horse like her would set up him up in life.

“She was the last thing his dad gave him and that makes it harder for him.

“He is desperate to find her and wants to offer a reward.”

Mrs Smith added: “James has 18 horses, but Lady was his pride and joy.

“Our only hope is that she has wandered off, but we think someone has taken her.

“All we can do is ask them to bring her back.”