FOUR horses have disappeared from a field - and now police are trying to piece together what has happened.

The equine mystery began when the animals vanished from a field on Woodhouse Lane in Botley overnight on Friday, February 28.

A padlock holding the gate in place had been knocked off and no reports were received of any loose horses in the area after 4pm.

Officers are investigating whether the animals were stolen. Two of the horses were 12 and 14-year-old geldings respectively.

The other two were colt yearlings and difficult to handle. A total value for all four horses is thought to be around £14,000.

Sergeant Debby Holman, said: “I’m keen to speak to anyone who was in the Woodhouse Lane area between 4pm on Friday afternoon and 6.30am the following morning. Do you recall seeing a horse box or animal style transporter? Did you see the horses loose ijn the area?”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Sergeant Debby Holman at Hampshire Constabulary's Western Country Watch team on 101 or via the Hampshire Constabulary website.

You can also call the charity Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where information can be left anonymously.

Minicom users should call 01962 875000.