THE RSPCA is becoming increasingly concerned about the future of Dartmoor ponies 'rescued' by well-meaning but inexperienced people from last year's pony sales after three colts were found dumped in a barn in Okehampton on Christmas Eve.

The animal charity said stickers from the Tavistock pony sale at the end of last year were still visible on the ponies flanks, although the numbers had been removed so the buyers could not be traced.

They were in good health but were completely wild.

Concerns have been previously voiced by the RSPCA about the rescuing of Dartmoor ponies by animal lovers with good intentions but no experience and Chief Inspector for Devon Tony Booth said it now appeared their worst fears were coming true.

The society is also investigating a report of ponies being dumped in a field near Okehampton and homes are being sought for four other ponies in the sales by a well-meaning owner from Umberleigh who has now admitted she cannot cope with them as the ponies are unmanageable and keeping breaking out of their enclosure.

'I would not be surprised at all if over the next few months more people contact us saying they are unable to cope with the ponies they have bought,' said Mr Booth. 'Rescuing ponies from markets is not a long-term solution and can do more harm than good.'

The RSPCA hopes to work with the Dartmoor National Park Authority and the Dartmoor Commoners Council this year to formulate a long term pony management plan which will reduce the number of ponies on the moor.

'This situation cannot be allowed to continue,' added Mr Booth.

'The market for these lower standard crossbred ponies is now virtually non-existent and these creatures are suffering as a result.

'We will work hard in our efforts to reduce the number of ponies on the moor with schemes such as tighter licensing. We must seek a solution to what has now become an annual problem.'

Press officer for the RSPCA Janet Kipling said the society was concerned about animals welfare and the right thing to do if people could not cope with their ponies was to freely admit it rather than abandoning them.

'Unfortunately emotive media headlines like ponies being sold for pet food and for £1 a piece have sent people rushing to the markets without any knowledge or experience of looking after ponies,' she said.

'Less than three months down the line we are being called in to pick up the pieces.'

Anyone wanting to rehome a pony from the RSPCA will be subject to a home-check and will be expected to provide shelter, food, equipment, veterinary and farrier treatment.

For further information please telephone 0870 5555000.