PICTURED: Young horse found with 2ft longbow arrow through his eye-socket after '˜wicked attack'

Widget, the young colt, was found in a field in Abbots Langley

The following story contains a graphic image which some readers may find upsetting.

Widget, a white and brown colt, was found in a field in off Bedmond Road, Abbots Langley, with the 2ft arrow still in the wound.

Police, the RSPCA, and the Constabulary’s Rural Operational Support team are investigating.

The horse was found at 7pm on Saturday evening and is receiving treatment at the Royal Veterinary College for injuries which are not thought to be life-threatening.

RSPCA deputy chief inspector Mel Fisher said: “It seems this poor boy has had a very lucky escape, though the next 48 hours will be crucial.

“The longbow bolt has gone through his eye socket and into his nasal cavity, miraculously without hitting anything vital.

“It’s hoped he won’t lose his eye but it’s too early to know for sure.

“This was a wicked attack on a friendly and sociable little chap.”

Investigating officer DS Dan Stoddart from the Three Rivers Local Crime Unit said: “This appears to be senseless, cruel crime and we are doing all we can to find the person responsible.

“If you saw anyone acting suspiciously around the field yesterday we would like to hear from you as soon as possible.”

Contact police on 101 with any information. Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.