Contractor brought in to round up horses

The authority said it had decided to call in a “professional horse impoundment company” after the animals’ owners ignored warnings about illegal grazing on council land.

The council said tethered horses and those running loose on playing fields, highways and other amenities, were a “constant nuisance” and the cause of many complaints.

It said that although most owners behaved responsibly, the horses in question regularly cause damage and are a threat to the safety of children and road users, as well as running the risk of causing harm to themselves.

Any owners who ignore warning notices will have their horses removed - and have to pay a fee to get them back.

Police will attend when horses are being impounded to avoid a breach of the peace, the council said.

The animals removed will be treated humanely and transported to stables where they will be well cared for until the owner claims them. A retrieval fee to cover costs will be payable.

The authority has also warned its tenants that allowing horses to graze in their gardens could be a breach of their tenancy agreement.

A spokeswoman said: “Over the last 18 months or so, as the problem in the city has exacerbated, the council has sought to liaise with the owners of illegally grazing horses. However, the problem has continued, leaving the council no alternative than to pursue impoundment.

“The council is committed to making Hull a safer, healthier and more pleasant place for everyone who lives, works and visits the city, and to promote responsible pet and livestock ownership. A professional horse impoundment company, with wide experience of dealing with this type of problem, has been brought in to help.”