THE owner of a prizewinning pony has hit out at youths who he says chased the animal to its death.

The heavily pregnant mare died in agony days after it had been chased in a field by youths with dogs.

The pet had been the pride and joy of top Dales Pony breeder Tom Coulthard, of West Auckland, who died earlier this year.

Mr Coulthard's son-in-law John Jimminson said he and his family are devastated by the loss of ten-year-old Emma, who suffered for days after the incident in Shildon.

He said people living near Elm Road Club, in the town, had watched a gang of youths chasing Emma and several other horses.

He said that the horse was seen running towards a fence and twisting herself when she realised she would not make the jump.

Mr Jimminson, 56, said: "She twisted herself and fell to the ground in agony.

"She never got back up. I was called out by someone who had seen her lying on the floor. I did not realise what had happened until days later. She must have been lying for hours in distress.

"I don't think these youths think about what they are doing. It was a really horrible way for her to die.''

Mr Jimminson said he had spent his life savings buying the field so that his horses could live in peace and enjoy the rest of her lives. He said: "My father-in-law was a top breeder, one of the first to breed Dales Ponies.

"He won many awards with his horses. Emma was one of the best. We wanted to breed from his horses and have been trying for ages. Emma was probably the last chance we had.''

Mr Jimminson has contacted the police who have confirmed that they are looking into the incident.

PC Mandy Lawton, of Shildon police office, said: "We would like anyone who may have seen the incident to contact us.''

PC Lawton can be contacted on (01325) 314401