REPORTS that a number of ponies have been fatally injured in accidents over the last six weeks has prompted a new call from an equine charity to drivers to cut down their speed.

Dartmoor-based South West Equine Protection (SWEP) confirmed there have been six fatal pony related road accidents in December and two in January.

Welfare officer for the charity Diane Wilson said in the latest incident, an in-foal mare was hit and knocked down directly opposite the flashing slow down speed sign which states there are animals on the road.

She said drivers needed to slow down, particularly on the roads from Yelverton to Princetown and Tavistock to Two Bridges.

'Dartmoor ponies are robust creatures and hitting one outright is sure to damage vehicles and possibly the drivers and passengers.

'You get some cases where the driver just drives off and an animal can be left injured or dying for some considerable time. It is all so unnecessary.'

Ponies tend to be drawn by the salt on the roads at this time of year when the roads have been gritted as it is rich in minerals.

The importance of reporting accidents with livestock straight away has been highlighted.

'All the ponies are owned and we care about them,' said pony keeper and Dartmoor Hill Pony Association Charlotte Faulkner.

'It's essential we are informed straight away so we can find the pony and deal with it accordingly.'

The Moor Care campaign aims to make drivers think ahead and be aware of what is around them as well as in front and behind and to observe the speed limits.

To report an accident call the police on 101 or the Dartmoor Livestock Protection Society on 07873 587561.