A horse was lucky to survive after being shot with a longbow in what the RSPCA called a "wicked attack on a sociable little chap".

Hertfordshire Police are appealing for witnesses after Widget, a white and brown Cob-type yearling colt, was found injured in a field on Saturday evening.

Detective Sergeant Dan Stoddart, the investigation officer, said: "This is a senseless, cruel crime and we are doing all we can to find the person responsible."

Widget is said to have had a "lucky escape" after the attack, in which the longbow bolt went through his nasal cavity and eye socket.

Pictures show the horse with the 2.5ft arrow lodged just below his left eye. However the arrow did not hit anything vital.

He was subsequently bandaged around the head and the bow bolt was removed.

He is currently receiving treatment at the Royal Veterinary College in Hatfield and it is hoped he will make it home by the end of the week.

Although he is recovering well, RSPCA Deputy Chief Inspector Mel Fisher said it is "too early to know for sure" whether the horse will lose his eye.

Hannah Dorset, who owns Widget, spoke of her pride of her horse who has "taken this awful incident in his stride.

"The team at the Royal Veterinary College is taking fantastic care of Widget. At the moment, they are taking all precautions to make sure the wound doesn't get infected or cause an abscess.

"I visited Widget yesterday and am pleased to say he is very bright and alert and was enjoying plenty of carrots as a treat! I have been overwhelmed by the support from people on social media."

Mr Stoddart said: "If you saw anyone acting suspiciously around the field we would like to hear from you as soon as possible."

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