SARAH-ROSE MORRIS AND DEBBIE SMITHERMAN FROM LLANSANTFFRAID FACE COURT OVER HORSE NEGLECT IN POWYS

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community of Llansantffraid in Powys, Sarah-Rose Morris, born around 1996, and her mother Debbie Smitherman, born on August 19, 1964, have been found guilty of severe neglect involving a Welsh cross pony named Holly. The two women, residents of Winllan Farm in Llansantffraid, were brought before the court after their involvement in the suffering and abandonment of the animal was uncovered.

Holly was discovered in a deplorable state, emaciated, collapsed, and confined within a horse trailer. The neglect was so severe that the pony was lying in her own urine, with no access to food or water for at least three days. The conditions of her confinement were described as shocking by those involved in her rescue. The pony’s bones were clearly visible, and the skin on her withers and other parts of her body had broken down, indicating prolonged suffering and neglect.

Jo Barr, the founder of Totem Horses, a non-profit organization dedicated to equine rescue and rehoming, was involved in Holly’s rescue operation. She recounted her disbelief upon seeing Holly in such a state. Barr, who previously worked for the RSPCA for ten years, expressed her astonishment at the neglect. She explained, “Having previously worked for the RSPCA for 10 years I honestly thought I had seen everything. But when we went to collect Holly, I could not believe what I saw.”

She further described the scene: “They had shut her in the trailer three days before as she was cold, but the pony was lying in her own urine with no food or water. I was amazed she was still alive.” Barr emphasized the severity of the situation, noting that Holly’s condition was dire, with all her bones visible and her skin broken down in multiple areas. She expressed her outrage that two individuals who claimed to love horses could allow such suffering to occur, especially with Holly just feet away from their house.

Following her rescue, Holly was transferred to Totem Horses, where she received urgent veterinary care. The organization immediately contacted the RSPCA, and Holly’s prognosis was uncertain at first. Barr shared that she personally stayed with Holly during the critical initial nights, sleeping in the barn to monitor her condition. Holly required continuous treatment, including drips and pain relief, and was too weak to lift her head or stand unaided.

Thanks to the dedicated efforts of veterinary staff at Lower House Equine Clinic, Holly gradually improved. Barr recounted, “All the staff at Lower House Equine Clinic were brilliant and made sure she had pain relief and fluids, everything else she needed around the clock. I was determined that if we did lose her she would not die alone – so I stayed with her.” After two weeks of intensive care, Holly was finally strong enough to stand without assistance, marking a significant milestone in her recovery.

Jo Barr also expressed her gratitude to RSPCA inspector Phil Lewis for his support throughout the case. She highlighted the importance of community and volunteer efforts, acknowledging the contributions of volunteers Lyddy, Kelly, Holly, Jiri, and later Helen and Adam, who helped Holly regain her trust in humans. Barr emphasized the importance of accountability, stating, “I am very pleased the court recognized the serious nature of the neglect and also the RSPCA exists to investigate and make sure the people responsible are held accountable for their actions.”

Holly’s story has a hopeful ending, as she is now in the process of being rehomed through Totem Horses. The organization is seeking a suitable, experienced home for her anywhere in England or Wales, where she can receive regular handling and care. Due to her young age and the trauma she endured, Holly remains cautious around new people, requiring a patient and understanding owner.

In court, both Sarah-Rose Morris and Debbie Smitherman faced sentencing. They were each ordered to pay a fine of £300, along with £250 in legal costs to the RSPCA and a £30 victim surcharge. Additionally, they received a ten-year ban from keeping horses or ponies, a restriction that will remain in effect until November 2028. This case underscores the ongoing efforts of animal welfare organizations and law enforcement to combat cruelty and neglect within the community of Powys.