Verderers remind members of the public to stay clear of continuing pony drifts across the New Forest

VERDERERS are warning members of the public to stay away as pony drifts continue in the New Forest this week.

The annual round-up of Forest livestock is vital for the management and the welfare of the animals, and is a key part of the commoning calendar.

Following a reduction in the scale of drifts during the pandemic, the annual round-up has now to returned to the pre-covid schedule.

However, a small number of drifts in the north of the Forest have been cancelled due to scheduled work on overhead power lines.

Clerk to the verderers Sue Westwood said: “For their own safety, members of the public are urged to avoid the area of the drift on the planned dates.

“It can be dangerous for those riding in and organising the drifts, as well as any members of the public that get caught up in them.

“Only bona-fide practicing commoners and persons invited by the agisters or verderers may ride or assist in drifts.”

A single case of the equine illness strangles has also been reported at Janesmoor Pond near Stoney Cross, which could impact on planned drifts in that area.

Drifts are scheduled to take place at Backley on 27th August, Broomy on 1st September and Dur Hill on 3rd September, followed by Latchmoor on 6th September and Beaulieu Road/ Culverley on 8th September.