A MAN whose three horses died after arsonists attacked their stable returned to the scene for the first time - and vowed to get justice for the animals.

Grandfather Michael Richardson became very distressed when he went to the stables, off Lingdale High Street, near Skelton, where arsonists had torched his barn.

He said he had been dreading going back to the burned-out building, where his beloved animals, Whiskey Mac, Little Fella, and Beth, died.

The 61-year-old said he could not stop thinking about how he heard the horses "screaming" for help at about 6am on Sunday, but how he could do little because the heat was so intense.

Mr Richardson agreed to go back to the stable, which was near his home, for the first time with The Northern Echo.

He said: "I have been dreading going back there, because what happened was just too terrible.

"I have been putting it off since Sunday, but I know I will have to go eventually."

When he arrived at the scene, accompanied by his wife, Rhona, he said he was still stunned that anyone could have targeted three defenceless animals.

The Northern Echo reported yesterday how Mr Richardson believed the arson attack on the stable was in revenge for his stand against lampers and poachers using his land.

"They weren't just animals - they were part of the family," he said.

"They were like pets to my granddaughters. The horses were so friendly, they probably would have wandered over to greet whoever it was that killed them that morning, thinking they were going to be nice to them.

"Whoever did this knew those horses would have been condemned to death. They committed murder, and they should be caught."

Lingdale Councillor Steve Kay said the whole community had been rocked by the arson, and appealed for people with information to come forward.

He said: "Everybody is totally traumatised by this. It is a close community and people do not expect this type of thing to happen in their midst.

"Mr Richardson is very well-known here, and people are very sympathetic. Nobody deserves that."

Sergeant Matt Hollingsworth, of Cleveland Police, described the arsonists as cold and callous.

He said: "These horses were this man's pride and joy. If anyone knows who did this, we would appeal for them to come forward."

Anyone with information should call Cleveland Police on 01642-326326