Spate of hit and runs involving New Forest livestock

In less than three weeks there have been several hit and runs involving livestock in the New Forest.

Figurs released by the Verderers show two foals have died and a pony has been injured.

• 20th June - 8:27 am -Donkey foal killed -Hatchet Pond - B3054

• 26th June -6:00 pm -Chestnut Pony Injured - Station Road, Goatspen

• 3rd July 10:10 am Bay colt foal injured and put down by agister -Ipley crossroads to Ipley Manor.

A fourth hit and run was reported on Rhinefield Road at Brokenhurst at 6pm on the 26th July, however agisters were unable to find the animal involved.

CRASH CLAIMS LIFE OF DONKEY AND HER FOAL

Meanwhile early on Saturday morning (10th July) a donkey and her foal were killed at Meadows Cross on the B3054, the driver involved there did report the accident.

The New Forest National Park Authority is again urging drivers to take extra care paticularly at this time of year with foals around.

It also says it's vital if you are involved in a collision you contact the relevant authorities as soon as you can.

"If the worst happens, and you do collide with a forest animal, or witness an accident involving one, please report it as soon as possible. A ‘hit and run’ could mean an animal would be left in pain for hours or days if not reported. Even if it runs off, the animal could be seriously injured, so call the police and an agister will be sent out to search for the casualty.

"Please be aware, failure to report an accident is a criminal offence."

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SPEED CHECKS CONTINUE

Meanwhile police in the New Forest continue to carry out speed checks on accident hot spots.

Several motorists were caught breaking the 40 mile per hour limit at Roger Penny Way recently with a top speed of 66mph.