POLICE are trying to trace a man in connection with a savage daylight attack on a horse.

The black and white cob stallion had to be destroyed after being stabbed with a broken bottle near to the Metz Bridge, in Middlesbrough, on Tuesday morning.

A Cleveland Police spokeswoman said yesterday that a man with a "dishevelled appearance" was seen in the area at the time of the attack

"We would like to speak to him to eliminate him from our inquiries," she said.

The man is described as white, aged between 45 and 50, about 5ft 5in, stockily built and greying brown moustache. He was wearing a red woolly hat, a red fleece and blue jeans.

Anyone with information is asked to call (01642) 303126.