A COUNCIL is trying to trace the owners of three horses found running loose around a village.

The ponies were rounded up by police after being found on a road in Pittington, County Durham.

None of the animals were micro-chipped, making tracing their owners extremely difficult.

Durham County Council has organised for the horses to be cared for.

However, if the owners cannot be traced quickly, they will have to be re-homed.

Anyone with information is asked to call Durham County Council on 03000-261-000 or email: horses@durham.gov.uk