A YOUNG pony was left battling for its life after being dumped in a field in Chessington.

The colt, aged between six and nine months old, is thought to have been stolen, but RSPCA officers have been unable to trace his owners through the police.

The owner of a field in Woodstock Lane South spotted the stricken animal at about 10pm on March 27.

Whoever dumped the pony there had cut through the fence and left him collapsed in a wet, boggy area.

An RSPCA spokesman said the colt seemed used to being handled and may have been kept inside, as the sore on his side suggested he had been lying on concrete.

RSCPA inspector Liz Wheeler, who is investigating the incident, said: "This poor creature was in a terrible condition when he was found and must have been in this state for some time prior to being dumped.

"I would urge anyone with information about who abandoned him to contact the RSPCA so we can make sure that no other animals are suffering."

The culprit could face up to six months in prison and/or a £20,000 fine.

An RSCPA spokeswoman: said: "He's doing very well. He's gaining weight and responding to treatment.

"Although he was very poorly when he came in to us, we're hopeful that he will recover, but we're still keeping a close eye on him."

Anyone with information is asked to contact the RSPCA confidential cruelty and information line on 0300 1234 999 and leave a message for Inspector Wheeler.