A horse sanctuary on the brink of closing due to lack of funds suffered another blow when they were robbed.

Thieves broke into the Essex Horse and Pony Protection Society in Pitsea Hall Lane, Pitsea, and took 300 horse rugs, which had been put away last spring for the oncoming winter months.

The theft has left staff feeling helpless as there is a strong possibility that they will have to close because they are desperately short of funds.

Trustee and manager Sue Allery said: "We have tried every possible way to raise money for our horses, including reintroducing the task of standing outside shop doorways rattling tins, opening both Saturdays and Sundays, as well as opening the sanctuary throughout the school Easter and summer holidays.

"The fact is unless we receive a substantial donation within the next few weeks, we will not be here next month."

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