A MAN whose horses strayed on school land has been ordered to pay £300 in compensation.
Officers from Codnor and Waingroves Safer Neighbourhood Team reported the 26-year-old man to North East and Derbyshire Dales Magistrates’ Court, where he admitted to several counts under the Highways Act of allowing his horses to stray on the highway.
He was told to pay £300 compensation to Mill Hill School, as the horses often strayed on school land. In May, police received several calls about stray horses in Ripley. Most of the callers said the animals were on the school playing fields.
PCSO Anna Welberry said: “These animals were straying on the school fields, posing a danger to students and disrupting lessons. They were also seen in neighbouring streets, which could have caused a serious accident.
“The force often receives calls about stray horses on the highway. Moving the horses to safety takes up officer time and their presence on busy streets causes unnecessary worry for road users.”
PC Welberry said she and the team were working with the RSPCA and Trading Standards officers to tackle the issue of stray horses in the area.
She added: “We need people’s help to identify those horse owners who don’t secure their animals. If you don’t want to call the police, you can pass on information via Crimestoppers.
“If you see a stray horse, call us on 101 or contact the RSPCA if you come across an injured horse. If the animal is tethered, please don’t untie it as it may escape onto a nearby road.”
A school spokesman said: “The safety of our students was our major concern and we are pleased that this particularly difficult issue has been resolved. We would like to thank the police for their help and co-operation with this matter.”
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