The RSPCA is appealing for help in finding temporary homes for horses affected by the weather in the Hereford area.

There is currently a group of 10 ponies in the Kingstone area of Hereford which, while not in a flooded field, are being affected by the wet and cold weather and whose welfare is at risk.

Their owner has been giving them supplementary food twice a day but the ponies are using all their energy fighting the elements and desperately need shelter until the weather improves.

RSPCA inspector Suzi Smith said: "Although these ponies are not in flood water, the elements are taking their toll on their health and, despite the best efforts of their owner, two are already underweight.

"We have more than 800 horses in our care and just don't have the facilities to temporarily house these ponies, so we are appealing to anyone locally who has a barn or similar that could be used to house these 10 youngsters to contact us."

Anyone who thinks they may be able to help should contact the RSPCA inspector appeal line on 0300 123 8018. It is felt that a barn would be preferable to stables as the ponies are used to living in a group.

The RSPCA is also monitoring horses in another area of Hereford whose field is partly flooded. These horses are in good condition and have been provided with extra food and someone has also come forward to try to help their owner with temporary accommodation.