Outrage at attack on horses used for disabled riding lessons in Maghera

It is understood that the animals at the Fort Centre were chased around their field, leaving them badly shaken up.

“I was shocked and appalled to hear that there was another attack on the horses of the Fort Centre in Maghera at the weekend,” said Mid Ulster MLA Sandra Overend.

“I learned that the horses were scared whilst outside in fields owned by the Fort Centre. They were allegedly chased around the fields, leaving them obviously shaken and without food, as it had been trampled in the field.

“Incidents like this put the horses at risk of injury, as well as the obvious dangers to the attackers themselves. It is very stressful for those who own and work at the centre, as they are left to help the animals recover.

This centre caters for all people in the community, including specific provision for disabled children. Mrs Overend said attacking these animals “puts all that work there at risk; and losing this business would be a blow for the whole community”.

She added: “I would encourage anyone with any information about the attack, or anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area, to contact the PSNI on 101 as soon as possible. Attacks like this cannot be allowed to continue.

“The Fort Centre have suffered from similar attacks in the past, and it is important that those responsible are dealt with appropriately, and any such future attacks are prevented.”