A Norfolk-based horse welfare charity has seen the number of abandoned horses triple in the past year.

In 2009, 160 abandoned horses were reported to Redwings, in Hapton near Wymondham.

In 2010 the figure increased to 241. So far this year the figure is 392 with the projected total expected to be 460.

Black and white horse Amigo was brought to Redwings in the summer with a skin condition after being dumped on a coal yard in Wakefield.

Spokesman for Redwings, Nicola Markwell, said: 'A member of the public found him and reported him to the RSPCA. By the time he got to the stable yard he collapsed and the RSPCA asked us to take him in. He seemed to have severe liver damage. He is making a really good recovery.

'We are getting horses from all over the country.'

The charity is currently at full capacity with around 1,200 horses.

Ms Markwell added: 'The value of horses has gone down so much that they are now selling for as little as �2.50 at auction.'

*Do you have an animal rescue story for the Evening News? Contact reporter Lucy Wright on 01603 772495 or email lucy.wright@archant.co.uk