An emaciated pony had to be put down after its owner failed to care for it properly, a court heard.

Welsh mountain pony Blue was suffering a skin infection and painful mouth condition caused by worn down and pointed teeth when the RSPCA examined it in a field near Crawley.

It was starving and in poor condition, and was put to sleep after failing to respond to treatment, Crawley magistrates heard.

The pony's owner Peter Rush, 60, of Rowfant, Crawley, admitted causing unnecessary suffering by failing to provide adequate care and attention.

Ben Smitten, defending, said Rush, a night courier driver operating out of Gatwick, was an animal lover who also had three dogs, four cats and four other ponies.

He had not intended to neglect the pony but had been suffering from depression following family and personal problems.

An RSPCA inspector confirmed other animals belonging to Mr Rush were in good condition and properly cared for.

District Judge Paul Tain said Rush would not be disqualified from owning animals because of his record with his other animals.

But he ordered Rush to pay costs and compensation of £1,031 to the RSPCA.