JOHN REID FROM MORECAMBE SENTENCED FOR HORSE ABUSE IN SHOCKING ANIMAL CRUELTY CASE

In a disturbing incident that has shocked the local community of Morecambe, John Reid, a resident of Bartholomew Road, was found guilty of severe animal cruelty involving his horse, Pebbles. The incident, which took place in the vicinity of Westgate, Morecambe, on October 10, 2020, revealed Reid’s brutal treatment of the young pony, leading to a court case that drew widespread condemnation.

Reid, known locally as a gypsy traveller with a history of violent offenses, was caught on camera repeatedly striking Pebbles with a blue plastic pole. The footage, played during the court proceedings, showed Reid raising his arm and delivering at least 15 forceful blows to the defenseless pony, while he was heard saying, “It’s gotta learn.” Witnesses described how Reid struck Pebbles every few seconds over several minutes, exhibiting a pattern of cruelty that shocked all who saw the footage.

The condition of Pebbles was equally distressing. The RSPCA inspector, Will Lamping, who launched an investigation following the incident, reported that the pony was severely underweight, with her ribs and shoulders prominently visible. The stable where she was kept was in deplorable condition, with a floor covered in horse feces and poisonous ivy growing at the back, which poses a significant health risk to horses. The environment lacked basic necessities such as clean bedding or feed, and Pebbles was observed chewing on the wood of her stable, a sign of nutritional deficiency.

Further examination by a veterinarian confirmed the poor state of her living conditions. The vet’s report detailed that the stable was unsanitary, with a floor deep in wet feces and plastic bags mixed into the mess. There was no dry or clean area for Pebbles to rest comfortably, nor any protection from the cold, hard stone floor. The environment was deemed completely unsuitable for a horse’s health and well-being.

Following the investigation, police took custody of Pebbles and transferred her to the care of the RSPCA, ensuring her safety and beginning her rehabilitation process. During the court hearing, it was argued that Reid’s neglect was only temporary, as he intended to sell Pebbles, but this did little to mitigate the cruelty inflicted upon her.

In sentencing, Reid received a 10-week prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, along with a fine totaling £328 covering costs and charges. Additionally, he was handed a five-year ban on keeping animals, which can be appealed after three years, with the ban set to expire in November 2026. Inspector Lamping expressed his concern over the impact of Reid’s actions, emphasizing that the pony’s suffering—both physical and psychological—was profound. Pebbles, being a young yearling, required gentle education and care, not abuse that instills fear and pain.

Reid transferred ownership of Pebbles to the RSPCA, which will now oversee her ongoing recovery and seek a loving new home for her. The case has sparked outrage among animal welfare advocates and residents of Morecambe, highlighting the importance of vigilance and accountability in animal care and protection.