Former racehorse dies after suspected poachers strike at farm near Malton

A former racehorse owned by the famous trainer Mick Easterby has died after a suspected attack by poachers at his land near Malton.

Police say the incident happened sometime on Thursday night, and a number of horses forced their way out of a field in Bulmer after apparently being spooked by poachers.

Mick Easterby has confirmed that one of the horses involved was 21 year old former racehorse 'Blue Spinnaker' who sadly suffered fatal injuries.

A number of other young horses (yearlings) were badly wounded.

Both Mick Easterby and North Yorkshire Police are urging the public to report any suspected poachers.

If an incident is currently taking place they should call 999, or alternatively ring 101 to provide information if it's non-urgent.

Mick Easterby released the following statement on Friday morning:

"I have some terribly sad news today about what has happened here overnight.

"Poaching is rife at the moment in Bulmer and surrounding areas.

"Last night at Mill House Farm, Bulmer, a herd of yearlings and their nanny horse, my wonderful 21 year old ex-racehorse Blue Spinnaker, forced their way out of a large field last night/this morning by pushing over a hung metal gate. Blue Spinnaker suffered horrific fatal injuries and a number of yearlings have been badly wounded. The horses were reported on the road this morning in a state of shock.

"There are vehicle tracks in the field not belonging to us. Herds of horses generally do not panic in this way unless they feel threatened.

"I have reported this to the police who will be coming to visit.

"Poaching is a priority offence meaning you call 999 to report if you witness it in action. The more they are reported the better response we will get; regular evening patrols. Poachers are unsavoury characters and can also be interested in farm contents (quad bikes/tools etc) so the more deterred they feel the better for everyone.

"If you do see or suspect anything would you please report it."

A spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police said:

“It’s clear that poachers have absolutely no regard for the senseless damage they inflict on animals, property, farmers and landowners. This awful incident would be another demonstration of the terrible impact that hare coursing can have in rural communities – which is why we treat all reports of this illegal activity in North Yorkshire so seriously.

“Anyone caught poaching in our area can expect to be summonsed to court, while those stopped in suspicious circumstances may be issued with a community protection notice – breaches of which will be prosecuted.

“We echo Mr Easterby’s call for all incidents to be reported. It’s important to emphasise that if poaching is taking place, that means a crime is in progress, and witnesses should call the police on 999 to report it. To report suspicious circumstances, or information about suspected poachers, when it’s not urgent, call 101.”