Probe launched for twisted horse killer after 16-year-old cob named Alfie died in 'sickening' assault

An investigation has been launched into a twisted horse killer who killed a 16-year-old cob named Alfie in a 'sickening' assault. 

Alfie was found butchered in a property off Owday Lane, Carlton-in-Lindrick, Worksop in Nottinghamshire, at around 10.30am on Thursday. 

The traditional tri-coloured cob was last seen alive at around 7pm on Wednesday before his owner bathed Alfie and turned him out in a field for the night. 

Nottinghamshire Police are now appealing for witnesses and they have issued a warning for horse owners in the area to be vigilant. 

Chief Inspector Clive Collings, Nottinghamshire Police's rural and wildlife crime lead, said: 'Although it's difficult to believe, all of the evidence shows that this was a sickening, heartless assault on a defenceless animal and I would urge anyone with information about what happened to get in contact with us as soon as possible.

'This is the epitome of a senseless and violence attack.

'Alfie's owner had been left distraught by his cruel death and wants justice for him.

'As part of our ongoing inquiries we're asking people in the area to check to see if they may have any recorded CCTV or doorbell camera footage which could help us, or if they recall seeing any suspicious activity between 7pm on Wednesday and 10.30am on Thursday.

'We are also warning horse owners in the area to be extra vigilant, given the appalling nature of this crime.'

Anyone who has any information is urged to call Nottinghamshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 244 of 25 July 2024, or alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.