POLICE are concerned about the welfare of a foal stolen yesterday as it still needs to be fed by its mother.

The foal was kept with his mother in a field in Monkton Deverill, near Warminster, and was last seen at 2pm yesterday.

He was discovered missing at 4pm and the police were immediately contacted.

The foal is a 15-week-old colt miniature dark in colour and the size of a labrador.

A picture has been released to help locate the animal.

Investigating the theft, PC Vicki Pegrum said: "This foal was stolen and it may be that whoever took it did not realise that it was still dependent on its mother for food. If it is not returned it will die and so as time passes we are becoming increasingly worried.

"I would appeal to any person who has the foal or knows where he is to contact police immediately so that we can reunite the foal with its mother. This is also a distressing time for the owner who is extremely worried about the animal and keen to see him again."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Wiltshire Police on 0845 408 7000 or phone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.