A FOAL rescued from Gelligaer Common is believed to have been stabbed and hit over the head by an attacker.

Police have launched an appeal into what a local rescue centre has called a "despicable" and "cruel" attack on the young foal.

Volunteers from the Welsh Pony Rescue and Rehoming Charitable Trust rescued the foal after spotting it on Gelligaer Common.

After catching the foal, volunteers realised it had been stabbed and hit in the face, something later confirmed by a vet examination.

The foal is believed to be three or four months old and has been named Suzanna. The trust are hopeful Suzanna will survive.

Volunteer Tracy Williams said: “This is despicable, you really can’t believe how cruel people can be.

“It took us three days to catch baby Suzanna on The Common. After getting her to the sanctuary we called a vet and they told us she was stabbed. It’s quite a deep wound.

“She also suffered a blow to the head causing a haematoma - so it looks seems either she was hit by a blunt object or punched. It’s unbelievable. They’re still babies at that age.

“She is being treated at the moment but the wound is infected so we aren’t too sure if she will make it.”

A spokeswoman from Gwent Police confirmed they are appealing for information.

She said: “The attack is believed to have taken place between Tuesday, August 1 and Tuesday, August 8.

The animal is believed to have suffered injuries consistent with being stabbed.

“Anyone who saw the incident or has any information is asked to call 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 quoting log number 444 11/8/17.”

The Welsh Pony Rescue and Rehoming Charitable Trust can be contacted at enquiries@welshponyrescue.org.uk

The charity is also raising money to pay for Suzanna’s vet bills - to help donate, visit mydonate.bt.com/fundrais

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