PONIES were dumped at a car firm research centre, forcing kind-hearted staff to take care of them.

The two animals were left at the Ford training and research centre, off School Lane in South Field, near Dunton.

Ford security staff had been taking care of the animals until rehoming took place yesterday.

Furious campaigners have slammed thoughtless idiots who left the animals at the site.

Kelly Brockett, 44, of Laindon said: “There is no need for this at all, I think it’s the cowards way out.

“It’s a good job the weather has been pretty mild as they could have got so cold.

“These vile idiots must be caught and dealt with so soon.

“It’s makes me so sad, especially when there are centres in Essex that look after horses.

“These are poor defenceless animals and deserve so much better than this.”

Bill Davison, 51, said Basildon said: “It’s just disgusting, I can’t understand why anyone would do such a thing.

“We must catch these idiots and make them pay, I am glad to hear the security staff at Ford had the right idea to help them.

“I hope they find a home and are safe and well very soon.”

Police are now appealing for witnesses to come forward.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We were called at around 7.20pm on January 26 by someone reported a number of abandoned horses on land in the area of the Ford site as well as damage to some gates.

“The caller reported they had also contacted the RSPCA.

“If you have any information please call us on 101 quoting the crime reference number 42/14406/20 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”

A spokesman for Ford said: “The Ford security team have taken the ponies under their wing to ensure they were fed and watered.

“We’ve also been working with the RSPCA and the ponies are due to be rehomed today.

“The Dunton charity committee has also made a donation to the rehoming charity that will be presented on collection of the ponies.”