The public’s help is needed to catch people who are leaving horses to die in fields.

The RSPCA has launched an appeal following the abandonment of several horses recently, including a Shetland pony in a field near Warley Street, Great Warley.

Charity workers say that they have seen a big increase in calls in Essex.

RSPCA deputy chief inspector, Stephen Reeves, said: “This poor pony was so lame, particularly in her front right leg, she had no chance of recovery.

“The vet tried to treat her for several days but nothing was working and it was felt the best course of action was euthanasia.

“I’d like to hear from anyone who might know anything about this pony, for example, who owns her or who might be responsible for her injuries.”

The find comes just weeks after a dead horse was left rotting in a field in Noak Hill, Havering, for weeks.

At the time, Sue Burton from Remus Memorial Horse Sanctuary near Ingatestone, said: “We find it particularly distressing that this animal died in unknown conditions yet no one seems to care about it.”

The RSPCA was criticised at the time for not taking action to remove the carcass – but it is in the remit of local authorities, rather than the charity, to remove dead animals.

RSPCA chief inspector Dawn Avery said: “We’re receiving lots of calls about horses and ponies that are neglected, underweight or generally in a bad way – and in many cases we would like to investigate with a view to prosecuting those responsible.

“But it can be very difficult to track down these horses’ owners or those responsible for their care.

“We’re appealing to the public to be extra observant and to let us know if they have any information about anyone who might be mistreating or neglecting their horses.”

If you have any information about the Warley incident call the RSPCA on 0300 123 8018.