Horse owners in Lichfield and Burntwood are being urged to be on their guard after suspicious incidents in the region.

On July 7 an owner in Colton discovered a plait in the mane of one of their horses. Two days later one in a field at Slitting Mill was also discovered to have a small, tight plait in the mane.

A spokesperson for Staffordshire Horse Watch, which is supported by Staffordshire Police, said: “In the past such plaits are thought to have been linked to horse thefts.

“Please be on your guard and report anything suspicious to the police immediately.”

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.