By Chris Hardy

POLICE HAVE appealed to members of the public for their assistance after a series of attacks on horses in the Laurencekirk area over the last few months.

There have been at least 12 separate incidents, during which a substantial number of horses have had hair cut from their tails and manes.

Police confirmed yesterday that the attacks began in January and the most recent occurred between 12pm on Sunday, March 11, and 11.15am the following day.

“All of the attacks have taken place during the hours of darkness and those responsible appear to be targeting the fields and horses surrounding Balhagerty Farm, Laurencekirk.

None of the horses has required veterinary attention but the owners of the farm are concerned, with those responsible for the attacks now returning to horses from which they they have already cut hair.

Police are currently working closely with the owners of the horses and other agencies to identify those responsible and to protect the horses from future attacks.

Sergeant Kenny McGeough, who is leading the investigation, said, “There have been a disturbing number of attacks to the horses on the farm and although no animal has been physically injured, I am extremely concerned that the attacks will continue and escalate in violence.

“It is therefore imperative that members of the local communities work alongside Grampian Police to prevent this behaviour and identify those responsible.

“I appeal for any person who may have any information regarding the identity of those responsible, or who may know the whereabouts of the horse hair, to contact the police.”

Anyone who thinks he or she may have any information about these incidents, or who has seen people acting suspiciously in the area, are asked to contact Grampian Police on 0845 6005700, or if they wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

The possible use for such relatively small quantities of horse hair is a mystery although some local people believe the hair may have been taken to be used in witchcraft rituals.