Advice makes horse sense

A Shropshire solicitor who is also one of the county's only equine law experts has urged people to take precautions when buying a horse through an advert.

Loretta Aston, of Mortimers solicitors, explained that unless a buyer was careful there were potential pitfalls which could be very damaging if they weren't avoided.

Mrs Aston, who works at the Bridgnorth office of Mortimers, said: "There are various elements to consider when buying from an advert.

"First of all, it's important to make sure that the person who is selling the animal is the person who owns it – they should have the necessary documentation to support this.

Landline number

"Contact details are also important. If the advert comes with a mobile number, ask for a landline number, and also if it is being sold from a yard make sure the seller has got a home address.

"Of course it's imperative to read the description very carefully. The term 'forward going' might actually mean that it can't stop, while 'not novice ride' could mean that it could have behavioural problems.

"These things are often put in as a bit of a disclaimer.

"Really, every word has to be read and scrutinised and it's worthwhile remembering that you can actually tell more about a horse from what has been left out of the description than what's included."

Mrs Aston said that she heard of a recent instance in Shropshire where the horse was described as a gelding but it hadn't actually been properly castrated.

The only way to identify this was through an operation.

Mrs Aston is from a riding background herself and completed an equine studies course at Walford Agricultural College before going into law.

She is now one of the only lawyers in Shropshire with expertise in equine law.

"I would like to think that because I live in the countryside and understand the needs of the rural community, I am as well placed as any to give the proper support to those in the equestrian world who need it," added Mrs Aston.