Success in round-up of horses

Stray horses will continue to be rounded up by police in a Black Country borough after a trial scheme was declared a success, it emerged today.

Dudley Council has been paying police to impound strays blighting the streets after council officers uncovered a law dating back to the mid-1800s. It stated officers could seize and impound cattle and horses on the highways – and since starting the scheme in April, 45 have been sei-zed and rehomed.

The move is helping to put an end to years of trouble caused by the animals.

There has been a history of problems with horses trampling through gardens, over cars and stopping traffic. The scheme was due to run out this month but council chiefs have agreed to extend the trial.

The problem with stray horses is not solely a Dudley issue. Problems have been reported in Bloxwich, Willenhall and Tipton.