Drivers praised for their actions after pony struck in an accident near Exbury

TWO motorists have been praised for their actions after a pony was struck in an accident at Hilltop near Exbury.

Speaking at a meeting of the Verderers Court, New Forest Roads Awareness campaigner Gilly Jones revealed a nurse and commoner called Sarah and a tree surgeon called Trevor had gone “above and beyond” to help the stricken animal.

Revealing that the mare had snapped her rear leg after being hit by a motorist in broad daylight on Wednesday 14th May, Ms Jones said: “They made sure she was protected using vehicles, and with others directed traffic.”

Both later revealed that although it took the agister just 12 minutes to arrive at the scene it “seemed like a lifetime”.

She added: “Both, fully aware of the outcome of the mare, are still haunted by the sound of the shot.”

Ms Jones added that shockingly many motorists were “annoyed” by the hold up the accident had caused, and that Trevor was so traumatised he couldn’t eat or sleep properly for days.

She said: “The incident was a unique one and is a live police investigation so I will not publicly say my views on the driver.

“Again, we all have to extend our thanks to all who helped in the incident, and to the agister for his continued professionalism.”

The court heard that in a separate incident on the same day two sheep were hit at Bramshaw. Ms Jones revealed: “The driver got out, looked at the two injured animals. They spoke to a resident and drove off. Again, the police are looking into this.”