"It is partly a reflection on socioeconomic pressures," he added. "Owners are working longer hours so find regularly exercising their horses hard to do.

Horses are becoming overweight because of climate change, according to a leading vet in Hampshire.

Gillies Moffat, director of Seadown Veterinary Services in Hythe, said the increasingly warm and wet climate was leading to an abundance of grass that was causing hordes to eat more than they need.

Speaking to The Daily Telegraph, the vet said a "significant" number of the horses he treats are overweight because of the issue.