An MP has called on the Government to clarify the laws on handling stray horses after scores have been caught running wild in the streets and fields of the region.

Chris Kelly said “irresponsible horse owners” were abandoning their horses on open land “with no regard to the potential danger to their animals or the public”.

Inevitably these animals were straying onto roads while looking for food and water causing “significant upheaval”, he said.

The Conservative MP said the increasing problem had forced residents in his Dudley South constituency to create a special action group to look at the issue.

A growing number of stray horses have been found in the Black Country, with Sandwell and Walsall also suffering.

The Express & Star revealed last week that some 80 had been left to roam in Walsall where an action group has also been set up.

Dudley Council is paying police an undisclosed sum to round up strays and hold them at a secret location until permanent homes can be found for them.

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