NEW figures have revealed that the number of hit-and-run accidents involving animals has doubled compared to last year.

A total of 28 hit-and-run accidents took place between January 1 and September 30, compared with 14 in the same period in 2008.

Verderers say an increasing number of drivers are failing to report collisions with ponies and other animals – many of which endure hours of agony before they are found.

The Forest has also seen a sharp rise in the overall number of collisions, reversing the trend that resulted in last year’s figure being the lowest on record.

A total of 140 accidents have taken place since the beginning of January, 33 more than in the whole of 2008. More than 50 of the animals involved were either killed outright or had to be destroyed.

The Verderers manage the system that allows people to let their ponies, cows and donkeys roam the Forest. They employ animal welfare staff called agisters, who have to deal with the horrific consequences of accidents involving villagers’ stock.

Sue Westwood, clerk to the Verderers, said: “Hit-and-runs are heartbreaking, not only for the owner of the animal but for the agister, too.

“It’s the agister’s job to find and sometimes destroy an animal that may have been suffering for hours.”

Mrs Westwood said there was no apparent explanation for the increase in the number of drivers failing to report collisions.

The National Park Authority is urging drivers to take extra care now that the clocks have gone back and the evenings are drawing in.

Nigel Matthews, head of visitor and recreation services, said: “A lot of ponies wear reflective collars but many don’t – and these are the ones that are often difficult to see.

“It’s not just the animal that’s at risk in an accident. If the driver is speeding the results could be catastrophic for them, their passengers and the vehicle.

“People must take more care, especially now it’s getting dark earlier.

“Ponies don’t realise that cars are dangerous. They can step out in front of a vehicle at any time.”