A DOZEN horses found illegally tethered on council land have been seized and removed.

The animals were taken from land in the Osbaldwick area of York and have been taken to secure stabling.

They must now be claimed within 14 days by the owner coming forward, proving ownership and paying all associated costs.

The action follows a policy decision taken by the council last year to remove such horses

It followed concerns over the number of horses tethered on council land – in particular on highway verges – and the potential for road traffic collisions, as well as the horses’ welfare.

Five horses found on council land were also impounded in March.