By Zoe Forsey

A pair of horses who were rescued from the garden of a semi-detached house are looking for new homes.

The RSPCA is currently looking for someone to look after the shire cross breed thoroughbreds Katie and Gypsy.

The horses have been nursed back to health at Southridge Animal Centre near St Albans.

Anna White, manager at the centre, said: "These two lovely girls are no longer able to work so they are looking for a retirement home.

"Their old legs are no longer up to carrying a rider of any weight or size. They have done their toil - now they need to be spoiled.

"They are very gentle girls and their only vice is that they seem to be oblivious of their size and the space that they take up so, without meaning to, they can push you about or squash you.

"When you point this out to them they seem to be genuinely surprised."

Due to their size the mares require a field with a solid, large, dry shelter.

Ms White added: "When they came into us they were significantly underweight.

"They steadily put on weight over the summer and as they have returned to full health they have blossomed.

"It is a wonderful sight to see them chasing around the field with the others."

  Anyone who thinks they can help should call the centre on 0300 123 0704.