LYNDA SMITH'S HORSE NEGLECT SCANDAL IN LITTLEHAMPTON AND PULBOROUGH

Lynda Smith, a livery yard owner based in Beaumont Park, Littlehampton, has been found guilty of severe neglect towards two horses, leading to their emaciation and suffering over a period of several months. The incident, which took place between August 2015 and February 2016, drew the attention of the RSPCA after a complaint was lodged regarding the health and condition of the animals.

Smith, also known as Lynda Beaney, was responsible for the care of two horses named Hamish and Ava, who were kept at stables located at Lickfold Farm in Wiggonholt, Pulborough. When RSPCA inspector Tony Woodley arrived at the scene, he was confronted with a heartbreaking sight: both horses were severely underweight, their bodies showing clear signs of prolonged starvation and neglect. The inspector immediately attempted to contact Smith by telephone and left notices at the stables, but these efforts were ignored, leaving no option but to escalate the matter.

Recognizing the urgent need for veterinary intervention, Inspector Woodley called in a veterinarian, who confirmed that both Hamish and Ava were suffering from neglect. The veterinarian's assessment revealed that the horses had been starved for months, with their bodies in a state of extreme emaciation. Both animals were suffering from high worm burdens, and their teeth were in desperate need of specialized dental care, further indicating a lack of proper management and care.

As a result of the findings, the police intervened and removed the horses from Smith’s care, placing them into the custody of the RSPCA. The case highlighted the failure of Smith to provide adequate nutrition and basic welfare for her animals, despite repeated attempts by the inspector to offer advice and assistance. Inspector Woodley expressed his disappointment, stating, “For months these poor horses suffered because Lynda Smith failed to get a vet out to them, even though they rapidly were losing body condition. Quite simply, these horses were not provided with adequate feed and reasonable level of care. Smith ignored my attempts to contact her to offer advice on improving their welfare.”

Fortunately, both Hamish and Ava have since been rehabilitated and are now in good health, looking fantastic under the care of the RSPCA. Inspector Woodley added, “It’s sad to think they horses suffered so much, but now this case has concluded, they can go on to find the caring forever homes they deserve.”

In sentencing, Lynda Smith was ordered to pay a total of £1,930 in fines, costs, and charges, and was deprived of the two starved horses as part of the court’s decision. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of animal welfare and the consequences of neglect in the rural communities of Littlehampton and Pulborough.