A HORSE drowned after it was left tethered in a swollen river for more than four hours.

Horrified youngsters tried to drag the horse from the rising water but failed after one of the ropes used to tether it worked loose, tangling around its legs.

One eyewitness, who asked not to be named, said: "There was nothing anyone could do. It didn't stand a chance.''

Police, who said that the horse died in horrendous circumstances, are trying to trace its owner.

A spokesman said they understood that it had been led into the centre of the River Wear at Bishop Auckland, at about 10am on Monday. It was then tied by ropes to Newton Cap Bridge and left.

One passer-by described how it started bucking and rearing as the river, swollen by heavy rainfall, started to rise.

Police later helped to retrieve the horse's body. The RSPCA had been phoned but a spokesman said that they were not told that the horse was in a life threatening situation.

PC Sarah Bainbridge, of Bishop Auckland police, said: "This is appalling cruelty to a horse. It has died in horrendous circumstances.

"We are appealing for witnesses to get in touch. "

Witnesses are asked to contact PC Bainbridge on (01388) 603566.