A HORSE has died and its rider injured after it was hit by a vehicle in the Forest of Dean.

Police in Gloucestershire are appealing for witnesses and information about the crash in Newent, less than 10 miles from Ross-on-Wye, on Monday.

The vehicle struck the horse at around 4pm in Clifford's Mesne, near to The International Centre for Birds of Prey.

The horse received veterinary treatment but due to the injuries sustained it was later put down, police said.

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The rider, a 19-year-old woman, was thrown from the horse and went to hospital with injuries that are not believed to be serious.

She was later discharged, but is said to be extremely upset by the ordeal.

Car found on fire nearby

Inquiries are ongoing to identify the driver of the vehicle, which is reported to have been a silver or grey Vauxhall.

It is believed the motorist, who did not stop at the scene, was a man aged in his 30s and was wearing a hi-vis at the time.

At around 4.45pm, an abandoned vehicle was found alight nearby. Inquiries are ongoing to determine whether this was the vehicle involved.

Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

Officers are also keen to hear from anyone who may have dashcam footage of the vehicle or who saw the driver leaving the scene.

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Information can be provided to police online and quoting incident 298 of March 7, or by calling 101.

Information can also be given to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously online or by calling 0800 555 111 or online