STAFF at a major racing firm are devastated today after a beloved retired racehorse received fatal injuries following what is believed to be a poaching incident.

David Easterby, son of renowned Yorkshire trainer Mick Easterby, assistant trainer and owner of the racing business, said his "wonderful" 21-year-old ex-racehorse Blue Spinnaker suffered horrific fatal injures, and nine yearlings were wounded after they apparently forced their way out of a field at Bulmer, between Malton and Easingwold.

The horse was a valued member of the team - and was listed in the staff section of the racing firm's website as a 'nanny' horse which looked after young horses.

He said: "I believe this is a result of poachers coming into the field and spooking them.

"Poaching is rife at the moment. We don't shoot hares so there are lots of them in the fields, as well as foxes as we encourage people not to shoot them.

"This is the result of that. Blue Spinnaker was 21, so his days of running were over, but something spooked him enough to force his way out of a large field by pushing over a hung metal gate.

"Blue Spinnaker suffered horrific fatal injuries, and the young ones were all wounded. They were reported to us as being on the road in a state of shock."

Mr Easterby said he found his horse in a terrible state, and was forced to put him down himself as the vet was too far away.

He added: "I couldn't leave him in agony."

"There are vehicle tracks in the field not belonging to us. Herds of horses generally do not panic in this way unless they feel threatened.

"I have reported this to the police who will be coming to visit. It is difficult to catch poachers in the act, but I'd like to urge anyone who sees lights or vehicles in a field late at night, to please call 999.

"Poaching is a priority offence meaning you call 999 to report if you witness it in action.

"The more they are reported the better response we will get to having regular evening patrols. Poachers are unsavoury characters and can also be interested in farm contents, including tools and quad bikes, so the more deterred they feel the better for everyone."