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"Devastating": police are investigating the cause of a blaze at Pursley Farm that killed two horses, 16-year-old Matisse and ten-year-old Rosie

Two horses were killed in an arson attack on their stable at a Shenley farm in the early hours of Wednesday.

Fire crews from Borehamwood and St Albans were called to Pursley Farm, in London Road, shortly after midnight, but were unable to save trapped Rosie, ten, and Matisse, 16, from the blazing barn.

The fire is being treated as arson and investigators are still trying to determine the cause.

Shenley parish councillor Stewart Hunter has run the farm for the past 43 years.

He said: "The fire started in one of the horse compartments. There was a ball of fire and we could do nothing to save them.

"We heard our dogs barking. My son took one of the three dogs into the house because it was barking so fiercely.

"Our neighbours heard the popping of the stable roof.

"I can't believe this has happened. These were the only two horses we had. One of the horses belongs to my granddaughter. It's all a bit sad."

Mr Hunter's son, Jimmy, who also lives at the farm, said: "At about midnight we heard the fire roaring and I ran outside and tried to open the stable door but it wasn't possible."

Jimmy's wife, Nicki Hunter, said: "This is devastating, especially as a mum, I feel for my daughter, Evie. She is 14 years old and really cared for the horses, as we all did.

"I had horses as a child and to lose them like this is awful."

Firefighter Steve Langford attended the scene and said: "When we arrived, the stable was well alight, it had been going for quite some time."

Crews tackled the fire until about 1.40am, but could not free the horses.

Investigators remained at the farm until yesterday to try to find the cause of the blaze.

Borehamwood watch commander Jack Horner said: "The fire thankfully didn't spread further than the stable block.

"Three fire engines attended the scene. The police were also there and they are now investigating the incident.

"This investigation is still ongoing and the cause has not been determined."

Detective Sergeant Steve Angell, of Borehamwood police, said: "We are treating this fire as arson and will be launching an investigation to trace those responsible.

"This was a thoughtless crime that resulted in the death of two defenceless animals. I urge anyone who knows anything to please come forward to police."

Anyone with information should contact 0845 33 00 222 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

10:00am Friday 28th March 2008

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