A MOTORIST was left distressed after witnessing a horse fall ill at the side of the road.

Police say they were called to reports of a horse in the road on Cufaude Lane, Tadley, at around 9am on May 3, after a member of the public witnessed the animal falling down.

In the footage, which viewers should be warned they might find upsetting, the animal is visibly unstable and disorientated.   

It is understood the incident was not related to an illegal horse and trap race which took place the weekend prior on the A33.

The local resident who witnessed the incident told The Gazette they were concerned about the animal's welfare, saying it "panicked, reared up and fell on its back".

They questioned why the horse was dragged back up "when it was clearly hurt".

Hampshire Police Country Watch officers have reviewed the footage and have confirmed that the horse and trap seen in the video are not the same type used in racing.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: “We are aware of a video showing the death of a horse on Cufaude Lane, Tadley.

“We were called just after 9am on 3 May to reports of a horse in the road on Cufaude Lane, after a member of the public witnessed the animal falling down.

“Officers attended to close the road to ensure the safety of those on scene as the horse was recovered.”

A spokesperson for the RSPCA said: “We’d really encourage anyone who has any footage that could help with any investigation to share it with either ourselves by calling our cruelty line on 0300 1234 999 or by calling the Police.”