WITNESSES are being sought after three donkeys died after a crash in the New Forest.

Police were called to the incident at 7.08am on Saturday (December 12) to reports of a single-vehicle collision on Roger Penny Way.

A white Mercedes van collided with three small donkeys close to the Fritham junction on the Roger Penny Way.

The three donkeys died as a result of their injuries.

Korine Bishop, Hampshire Constabulary Rural Policing Inspector, said: “This was a tragic incident which resulted in the death of three New Forest donkeys. The driver of the vehicle was spoken to at the scene by officers – with police enquiries ongoing to determine the exact circumstances of the incident.

“Yet, tragic as this incident is, it is a timely reminder to the residents of, and those driving through, the New Forest to be aware of your surroundings. We are now beginning to see wetter roads and reduced visibility due to dark early mornings and fog across the New Forest. While there is a maximum speed limit of 40 miles per hour applied across the area, motorists are advised to adapt their speed to the current driving conditions.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101, quoting 44200478908. Alternatively, contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.