A HUNT has been launched for the culprits who dumped a dead horse by a Hampshire roadside.

The young dead black horse was found trussed and dumped on a public footpath directly opposite the Elm Tree Inn on Swanwick Lane and Botley Road in Swanwick.

The RSPCA confirmed that it was aware that the body had been removed by the council and said it was “looking into the matter”.

Fareham Borough Council leader Sean Woodward, who lives close to where the animal was found, told the Daily Echo: “This is the vilest thing that I have ever seen, it’s absolutely disgraceful.

“When I arrived to see the pony, it had a swollen wormy belly and scabs around the neck, suggesting it may have been tethered.

“It looked like it had been neglected.

“The person responsible needs to be identified straight away. “

“As a horse lover, it’s horrific to see one of God’s most noble creatures treated in such a horrific way.”

“I would urge anyone with any information about this incident or recognise the horse in the picture should report it to Hampshire police."

It is believed the horse may have been dumped from a truck between 6pm and 8pm on Monday.

Following the discovery, the body was then covered before being collected by Fareham Borough Council’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs-approved livestock contractor on Tuesday morning.

The news has also shocked other local politicians.

Councillor Trevor Cartwright, deputy leader of the council said: “If an animal dies then it should be disposed of in an appropriate way.

“This horse shouldn’t be dumped anywhere, it’s awful.”

Councillor Mike Evans, chairman of Whiteley Town Council, added: “I am absolutely shocked that somebody can do something like this.

“The people responsible should be brought to justice.”

Hampshire Police added that it was investigating the incident and is appealing to anybody that knows any information to call them on 101.