A horse died in a suspected arson attack on a stable block.

Fire crews made a desperate bid to save the animal, which was trapped inside the burning stable in Honeysuckle Way, Witham, at 9.30pm on Sunday.

But the animal had already died in the blaze.

Another horse which was trapped inside was freed in time and is now believed to be recovering from the terrifying ordeal.

Fire crews have called in the police because of the doubtful origin of the fire. An investigation into its cause has now been launched.

Witham station officer Terry Hutton said: "The fire could have been started by arsonists and we are warning other stable owners to be on their guard. It will be treated as very serious as an animal has been killed."

Anyone with information should call Witham police on 01376 501212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.