POLICE have launched an investigation after three New Forest ponies were killed in hit-and-run accidents.

A foal died in a collision near Beaulieu and the other two ponies were so badly injured they were put down as soon as they were found.

The incidents have angered the Verderers, who represent the interests of the villagers who own the ponies and cattle that graze the Forest.

So far this year 17 ponies have died on New Forest roads. Last year over the same period there were only 10 deaths.

A Verderers’ spokesman said: “Two of the ponies were left with broken legs. They would have suffered severe pain and would have been in considerable distress.We don’t know how quickly the foal died following the collision.”

The foal was found at Hilltop by the head agister, Jonathan Gerrelli, who was called out at 1am. Vehicle parts discovered at the scene suggest that the vehicle involved in the accident was a Subaru Legacy.

The second collision occurred at the northern end of the B3054 Hilltop to Applemore road.

Mike Lovell, the agister for the area, was called out to a filly with a broken hind leg. She was so badly hurt she had to be put down.

Mr Lovell also had to destroy a mare who suffered severe leg injuries in an accident on the B3056 Lyndhurst to Beaulieu road.

As reported in the Daily Echo, the Verderers offer a £1,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of hit-and-run drivers.

Some pony owners say 99 per cent of accidents that go unreported involve drink-drivers or motorists with no insurance.

Anyone with information about the latest incidents should call WPC Alison Tilbury at Hythe police station on 101 or the Verderers on 023 8028 2052.