CAMPAIGNERS have pleaded with guardians of the New Forest to back them in a fight against plans for the future of the National Park.

Horse owners crammed the Verderers’ Court in Lyndhurst to voice their fears over proposals they say could have a devastating effect on the equestrian industry.

Now they have called on the ancient body, which represents the interests of New Forest commoners, to join in their battle.

They fear proposed new rules will make it impossible for them to keep horses for recreational use. There have also been claims that adhering to the planning guidelines could increase the chance of horses and ponies catching the painful disease laminitis.

Veterinary surgeon Fiona Macdonald told the court in Lyndhurst that adopting the New Forest National Park Authority (NPA) proposals could compromise the welfare of animals.

She said: “I would urge Verderers to use their influence with the New Forest National Park Authority to amend this part of their plan which is quite unnecessary, and is causing so much distress to a significant section of the New Forest community.

“Owners keeping horses on existing properties will find themselves having to apply for planning permission knowing they would be unable to comply with new requirements.

“When their applications inevitably fail, they will be forced to sell or destroy their horses.”

Verderers listened to a number of “presentments” and vowed to take all concerns in to account during their deliberations.

Official verderer Oliver Crosthwaite Eyre added that their official response to the NPA draft consultation plan and recreation management strategy would be completed this week.

Before the court session, anti-NPA signs were placed on the pavement outside.

A small demonstration took place, although Forest Uprising – the group set up to fight the plans – distanced itself from the protest.

Instead, they were due to turn up in force at a full meeting of the NPA at Waterside Sports and Social Club in Holbury from 9.30am on Thursday.

Meanwhile, a minute’s silence was held in honour of verderer Diana Halford, who died recently.

Official verderer, Oliver Crosthwaite Eyre, said Mrs Halford was an “inspiration” to her colleagues and would be sadly missed.

He said: “She had been suffering from a serious illness and undergoing gruelling treatment, but you wouldn’t have guessed. She carried on as if nothing was wrong. Her strength and courage were an inspiration to us all.”