RAVENOUS horses said to be on the lookout for fresh grass are becoming a danger to motorists, according to residents who have called for the police to take action against their owner.
The police and council have been working together to solve the problem involving a group of five horses - thought to be owned by travellers - whose enclosure is off Cross Hill, Brierley.
Last weekend the animals escaped from their enclosure and walked on the A628 towards Shafton, eventually settling in a kids’ play area on High Street where they stayed until officers from the police and council removed them on Tuesday night.
Rebecca Cherry, who volunteers with South Yorkshire Horsewatch, said: “I’ve been down there five times a week trying to get the horses off the road.
“At the minute it’s dire and it’s getting worse as it’s getting colder. The horses are getting hungry and it’s dangerous.
“There were five incidents on Wednesday night where they’ve been out in the road. I contained them in the cul-de-sac and I had to wait there three hours for the police to arrive. I understand they’re busy, but if somebody gets killed it is an emergency.
“They’ve damaged two cars this week alone. A number have been hit by cars. One car had two young children in the back and the horse actually went through the windscreen. Thankfully no-one was hurt.”
Rebecca said Horsewatch was looking at setting up a meeting with residents, police and local councillors to address the problem.
Dave North, chairman of Shafton Parish Council, told the Chronicle the horses have been causing chaos for weeks.
He said: “No-one could go into the kids’ play area at the weekend as one was quite vicious and they left a big mess with their hoof marks and manure.
“It’s something that’s been going on for a while in Brierley but they made their way to Shafton and settled - they were ravenous and it’s because their usual field is bare.
“They’ve been moved back to their enclosure but it isn’t secure and we’re certain it’ll happen again. They get out often and the owner should be taking responsibility for them as they’re causing chaos.
“This matter was brought up at a crime and safety group meeting held in Shafton before Christmas. It’s ridiculous as there’s been so many incidents but the owner appears to care little about their welfare and the motorists he’s putting in danger.”
Sgt Richard Wilson, whose officers are responsible for the area, said work is being done to get the owners to take responsibility and secure the perimeter fencing.
