ANIMAL welfare officials launch a campaign today to combat the plight of tethered horses, a problem that has plagued the region for years.

Once again, the North of England's shameful animal cruelty record, which has seen it branded cruelty capital of Britain for eight consecutive years, is the cause of grave concern for the RSPCA.

The number of horses injured or killed because of tethers has risen in recent years.

The shocking incidents dealt with by RSPCA inspectors in County Durham and Tyneside this year include a colt strangled by its own chain when it fell down a steep embankment, and a Shetland pony which was suffocated when its tether tangled with that of a pregnant horse it was fighting with.

Tethered horses have also been involved in serious road accidents after managing to break free of their restraints.

In 2000, 1,351 people in the region contacted the RSPCA about a horse they feared was suffering. Last year, this figure rose to 1,786.

Today, the Society launches a campaign calling for greater legal protection for tethered horses and a rigorous code of conduct for owners.

Although tethering is legal, the RSPCA is opposed to the practice because of the terrible injuries, painful deaths and impact on the animal's freedom.

David Millard, RSPCA superintendent for Yorkshire and the North East, said: "While the welfare of many of these animals is clearly compromised, legally we are powerless to act unless we can prove that unnecessary suffering has taken place.

The RSPCA would like to see new legislation introduced designed to protect tethered horses."

The charity has written to every local and police authority, and MP in the region asking for support. Scarborough and Whitby MP Lawrie Quinn has pledged his support.

A roadshow to highlight the tethering problem tours the region all this week. It is at the MetroCentre, in Gateshead, today, followed by Davison Street, in Middlesbrough, then Parliament Street, in York, Briggate, in Leeds, and finishes at Queen Victoria Square, Hull, on Friday.

Read more about the Animal Watch campaign here.