CALLOUS thieves stole the rug off a miniature pony in a field in Trevethin on the coldest night of the year so far.

Little Man, the 34-inch miniature spot stallion was robbed of his rug in a midnight raid.

As a miniature pony, Little Man's owner Jo Bialan had to get a hand made rug for him as he would be swamped in normal pony rugs.

Ms Bialan was left stunned at the 'callous nature' of the thieves. The Trevethin-based Youth Worker has owned horses for the last 20 years and currently keeps two other ponies along with Little Man in the Church Lane field. Two were rescue ponies, whose fear of people must have prevented thieves getting near them and saved them from losing their rugs.

She said: "I am absolutely livid, especially when my ponies have given so much to the community. As part of my job as a youth worker they have often come to events. In the summer youngsters in Trevethin had a great time getting to know the three ponies when they were at the carnival. Lots of the kids enjoyed grooming them and learning a bit about caring for horses. It's a great experience for kids as animals are a great leveller."

She described Little Man as an 'absolute sweetheart,' and is fuming that someone has put his health at risk.

She reported the incident to Pontypool Police, who are investigating. They have asked any witnesses to call 01495 764711.

Meanwhile Ms Bialan, who is also battling pneumonia, is ringing round trying to find a replacement rug for Little Man, in preparation for what is predicted to be the coldest winter in a decade.

"The cheapest I can find a rug for is £65 and that is in Cardiff."

Anyone with information about where to get a suitable rug for a miniature pony can get in touch via the Free Press.