People buying horses are being urged to carry out stringent checks following reports that dealers are selling lame or injured animals.

Officers investigating horse dealers in the county arrested four people on suspicion of fraud in April and May last year.

Two women, both 25, a 63-year-old man from Deal and a 37-year-old man from Meopham are all on bail.

PC Erin Thornton said: "Allegations have been made that horses are being sold by horse dealers as suitable for novice riders or children. The victims say they have then discovered noticeable problems with their new horse, which on some occasions have led to injuries as well as unexpected financial burdens."

Their advice to anyone thinking of buying a horse, is to be confident and not allow yourself to be swayed; to ask to see the horse's passport and use a vet of your choosing, and to be there for a pre-purchase examination.

To report any suspicious activity relating to horse selling, call police on 101 giving reference CY/016483/10, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.