WREXHAM’S famous pony has been detained by council officers following concerns over its welfare.

Wrexham Council say the pony, believed to be Ruby, was taken away after it was found unattended on council land near Wrexham Maelor Hospital.

Officers are now investigating reports that the pony had been abandoned on a number of nights at unsuitable locations, including the cemetery in Pandy and the hospital helipad.

A council spokesman said the pony was taken away on Tuesday to a place of safety by council officers, assisted by the RSPCA, following calls from members of the public who were concerned for its welfare.

Last week the Leader reported how Ruby, owned by local traveller Joe Purcell, had been left unattended at a cemetery where she was seen eating flowers left at gravesides.

In a statement Wrexham Council said: “The pony was found straying on council land over the bank holiday weekend.

“It is thought the pony is linked to the recent reports in the media.

“Council officers are investigating reports that the pony had been abandoned on a number of nights at unsuitable locations, including the hospital helipad and the cemetery in Pandy.

“A number of complaints have been received from the public raising concerns over the welfare of the animal and public safety issues. On a number of occasions the animal has been left untethered and unaccompanied close to busy roads.

“The pony has been examined by a vet and will be looked after in a secure place.”

The news was revealed after a member of the public told the Leader that she had seen an animal detention notice relating to a Welsh Pony while out walking near Wrexham Maelor Hospital.

Karen Oliver, 39, from Acton was walking under a bridge near the hospital after visiting a friend, when she came across the notice, which was issued by Wrexham County Borough Council under Section 7 of the Animals Act 1971.

Karen said: “The notice said that a Welsh Pony had been detained after being left on council land and I’m sure it must be Ruby, as she’s the only pony I’ve ever seen round here.

“I saw her tethered up by the hospital helipad a few weeks ago, and she looked well enough.

“The notice was on land close to the hospital car park, so it could have been dangerous for visitors if Ruby was left to wander free by there.”