Two Surrey men who pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing to handling stolen saddlery stolen from riding stables in Surrey appeared at Kingston Crown Court on Friday (7 September) for sentencing.

Christopher Pugh of Walton and Valentine Brown of West Molesey, both aged 37 were given jail sentences of 2 years and two years three months respectively. The pair were caught selling stolen tack from stables in Guildford and Sunbury-on-Thames in December last year. The total value of the stolen goods was said to be in excess of £13,000.

The judge commented that the pair were prolific handlers who had spoiled the lives of many local riders. He commended some of the witnesses in the case for their bravery in coming forward and assisting police with their enquiries.

Acting Det. Insp. Colin Butcher of Surrey Police said, "Through a thorough and meticulous investigation, supported by numerous people within the equine world, two prolific offenders have been brought to justice.

"The impact on the lives of those affected by these crimes is immeasurable, and the judge took this into consideration when sentencing Pugh and Brown for custodial sentences."