THREE saddles, valued at approximately £400 each, have been stolen from the Riding for the Disabled Association stables in Ringwood Road Ferndown.

The incident happened sometime overnight between Tuesday and Wednesday this week.

Police Constable Nina Doyle, of Ferndown police, said: "The Riding for the Disabled Association site is run by charity donations and provides a vital service for those with varying degrees of disability.

"The site has specialist trained ponies and a horse simulator for pupils to learn riding skills before progressing onto the real thing.

"It is renowned for the positive effects it can have for all service users and this theft will have a detrimental impact on its current programme until funds can be raised to replace the stolen items."

One of the stolen saddles is described as a sheepskin-covered therapy saddle complete with stirrups. The second is a black sixteen and a half inch Thorogood part-suede synthetic saddle. It has stirrups with toe stoppers. A 17 inch black hunt saddle was also taken.

PC Doyle added: "I am appealing for anyone who saw or heard any suspicious activity in or around the stables at that time to contact me urgently.

"If anyone has any knowledge of the whereabouts of these saddles or would like to donate to the riding for the disabled group, I'd urge them to contact me at Ferndown police station.

"I would advise all horse owners to check the security of their horse equipment and consider marking their tack."

Anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 1:45. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.