A Wiltshire firefighter who gave water to a pony in the New Forest won’t be disciplined, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue (DWFRS) has confirmed.
A Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) was imposed in the national park back in 2023, and makes petting or feeding the wild-roaming animals illegal.
While it does not expressly ban giving water to ponies, doing so is condemned by the New Forest Commoners Defence Association (CDA) – who own and manage them.
As previously reported, a DWFRS firefighter based at a station in Wiltshire was pictured giving what is now believed to be water to a pony in the New Forest.
The photograph was posted on social media and received mostly positive comments. Though some pointed out that his actions were unacceptable and potentially unlawful.
The post was removed by the DWFRS. A spokesperson said that following deletion, crews were briefed about the PSPO and rules about interacting with ponies.
Now, in reply to a concerned member of the public on social media, they service confirmed that the firefighter will not be reprimanded for his actions.
Sally Marsh, who is a commoner and author based in the New Forest, said: “New Forest ponies are resourceful, intelligent and incredibly hardy.
“They have evolved to thrive in this unique environment and do not need us to provide artificial feeding or additional water.
“Please, do not be tempted to feed the ponies or put out water.
“Although it may seem like a kind thing to do, it can cause far more harm than good by encouraging unnatural behaviours and drawing animals into areas where they may be at greater risk.”
She went on to say that the ponies are very used to burnt ground, as seen in recent wildfires, because the land is managed with controlled fires in the winter months.
