RAMBLERS have been warned to observe the Countryside Code after a walker allowed two horses to escape from a field by leaving a gate open.

Minutes later one of them was in collision with a car and needed emergency treatment from a vet.

The collision occurred on the outskirts of Badsey on Tuesday, leaving the car undriveable and the animal needing emergency treatment..

The incident occurred shortly before 10pm when two horses strayed from their nearby field, and one was in collision with the green Nissan Almera.

The woman driver was shaken but did not need treatment from Ambulance Service paramedics, although she went to Worcestershire Royal Hospital's accident and emergency department as a precaution.

A local resident caught the horses and held them in a yard until the vet arrived. The injured horse sustained a severely cut lip but was able to be turned out in its field and is expected to recover fully within two months.

It is thought that a walker left a gate open when using a footpath running through the field at Bretforton House Farm, where the horses were kept.

Police spokesman Richard Bull appealed to all walkers to always close field gates.

"This incident emphasises how easily serious accidents can occur as a result of carelessness or thoughtlessness. It's vital that everyone visiting the countryside should adhere to the Countryside Code, which includes checking that field gates are properly shut again after use,"

Police are asking for witnesses to contact them on 08457 444 888.