Trio sentenced for cruelty at Cornwall horse therapy centre

Three people have been sentenced for committing animal cruelty offences at an equine therapy centre in Cornwall.

James Baker, 55, and Sarah Baker, 33, from Par, admitted six counts of causing unnecessary suffering to horses, ponies, a donkey and a goat.

Darren Laker, 46, also from Par, admitted one count of causing unnecessary suffering to a horse.

The Bakers were jailed for nine months for each count, suspended for two years, at Truro Crown Court.

Laker was given a 12-week prison sentence, suspended for two years.

The Bakers ran a community interest company called Family Nest Equine Therapy, now dissolved, which ran pony parties, riding lessons and therapy for veterans.

Concerns were raised by a member of the public when some animals were seen malnourished and in a poor state, the court heard.