THE hunt for thugs who blinded a horse has been given fresh impetus thanks to a local businessman.

A £2,000 reward for information leading to the capture of those responsible is being offered by the boss of a hotel in Saltburn, east Cleveland.

Jim Brennan was angered by the airgun attack on family pet Chezney.

The former policeman, who owns Rushpool Hall Hotel, said: "I want to see these people in court so we can identify them as the ones who carried out this sickening attack.

"In this area, kids are brought up with a love of animals and we need to round up those responsible for this attack."

After last weekend's attack, the 16-year-old horse's eye was so badly damaged by the pellet it had to be removed.

His stablemate, Peanut, a small Welsh pony, was also injured during the attack on stables at Whitehouse Farm, Carlin How.

Their owner Nicola Garbutt, 41, said: "Whoever did this deliberately aimed at Chezney's eye and it was touch and go at one time whether he would survive.

"There has been a fantastic response from everyone and I want to say a big thank you."

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Richy Bailey, on (01642) 302710.