A hunt has been launched for a hit-and-run driver who hit a horse - causing such serious injuries that the animal had to be put down.
A 19-year-old woman riding the horse needed hospital treatment for her injuries and is 'extremely upset' by her ordeal, police in Gloucestershire said.
After the crash the driver left the scene and a burning vehicle was later found nearby.
"A vehicle struck the horse at around 4pm on Clifford's Mesne, near to The International Centre for Birds of Prey," said a police spokesperson.
"The horse received veterinary treatment but due to the injuries sustained it was later euthanized.
"The rider, a 19-year-old woman, was thrown from the horse and went to hospital with injuries which are not believed to be serious.
"She was later discharged from hospital and is recovering at home. She is extremely upset by the ordeal."
Officers have appealed for help identifying the person responsible for the tragedy.
The police spokesperson said: "Enquiries are ongoing to identify the driver of the vehicle, which is reported to have been a silver or grey Vauxhall.
"It is believed the motorist, who did not stop at the scene, was a man aged in his 30s and was wearing a hi-vis at the time.
"At around 4.45pm, a short while after the collision, an abandoned vehicle was found alight nearby. Enquiries are ongoing to determine whether this was the vehicle involved.
"Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
"Officers are also keen to hear from anyone who may have dashcam footage of the vehicle or who saw the driver leaving the scene."
