A DOZEN horses which had been illegally tethered in York have been seized by the council.

North Yorkshire Police and City of York Council's horse bailiff had been alerted to 12 horses in the Osbaldwick area, and left warning notices prior to the seizure.

Last year, the council’s Cabinet approved a policy to remove horses from council land using a licensed contractor who began work in February 2014. This follows concerns over the number of horses tethered on council land – in particular on highway verges – and the potential for road traffic collisions, as well as the horses’ welfare.

Acting Chief Inspector Charlotte Bloxham of York Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: "Illegally tethered horses present a danger to members of the public as well as putting the welfare of the animals at risk. Incidents involving loose animals also take up a lot of policing resources. The council’s efforts in recovering the animals are very welcome and we are pleased to support this positive move.”

Councillor Tracey Simpson-Laing said: "This enforcement action to curb fly grazing and illegal tethering is for the animals’ welfare and for road users’ safety and I’m very glad we’ve been able to bring 12 horses to safety.

"Those which are microchipped can be quickly returned to their owners following the terms of the notices, and the other owners can claim their animal and pay the associated costs. This action sends out a strong message that horses should be securely and legally tethered and grazed."

The horses have now been moved to secure stables, where they will be cared for and checked over by a vet, and must be claimed within 14 days by the owner coming forward, proving ownership and paying any costs.