THE jail sentence given horse trader James Gray sends a “clear message” that disregard for animal welfare will not be tolerated, the boss of a charity which took on some of the rescued animals said today.

Paul Jepson, chief executive of The Horse Trust in Speen said the verdict was “a great result for the RSPCA”.

He said the charity had spent about £150,000 looking after two horses, nine ponies and three donkeys from Spindles Farm after the January 2008 RSPCA rescue.

One pony died and two were transferred to another sanctuary in August.

The charity said health problems included strangles, salmonella infections, anaemia, parasite infections, impaired liver function, and internal organ damage.

Mr Jepson and Liane Crowther, trust welfare and education officer, were called as witnesses at Gray's trial.

Mr Jepson said: "This sentence sends a clear message that this wanton disregard for animal welfare will not be tolerated.”

“By banning James and his family from owning horses, we will be protecting thousands of horses from potential abuse.

"We are sending out a strong message to people who put profit before animal welfare.

"By giving James Gray a jail sentence we are sending out a powerful message to people who do not look after their animals properly.

“People are likely to think more carefully about how they treat the animals in their care if they know they are risking a jail sentence," said Jepson.

"We are glad that the RSPCA will be able to recoup some of its costs from the Gray family.

“They are leading the way in enforcing the Animal Welfare Act and deserve recognition for their hard work.”

He said: "We won't be able to recoup the money we have spent from the Gray family, so are dependent on the generosity of the public to help us.”

"We have been touched by the generosity of people over recent months, particularly given the credit crunch which has forced everyone has to watch their pennies.

“We would like to thank everyone who kindly donated to The Horse Trust and would be delighted if they could visit us to see the difference they've made.”

The RSPCA today awarded a commendation to Mr Jepson, Shirley Abbott, yard manager, Charlotte Pardon, head groom, and Liane Crowther, the welfare and education officer.