The remains of an apparently mistreated thoroughbred horse have been discovered hidden under a tarpaulin at the side of an Abbots Langley road.

The body of the 15-16hh bay-coloured mare was found at around 3.45pm on Bedmond Lane last Monday afternoon (April 9).

RSPCA officials described the animal as being very thin and having scouring (diarrhoea) on her tail and back legs.

RSPCA animal welfare officer Kate Wright said: "We are appealing to anyone who may have any information as to who has dumped this poor horse and why.

"She was wearing a blue head collar and there is evidence that she had previously been shod.

"I believe the horse was an older mare, probably 10 years plus, and I think she was probably dumped after she died.

"I would appeal to anyone who has any information regarding this horse, or who may know who the owner is, to come forward. Someone may have also seen people acting suspiciously in the area prior to the body being dumped."

Anyone with information is urged to call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999.