A Shetland pony has been found stabbed to death in a field in West Lothian, prompting a heartbreaking social media post from a neighbour who used to help his owners with him from time to time.

Police Scotland were alerted to the incident at around 11am on Monday.

The pony, named Pepper, was found in a field behind Roman Camp Cottages, in Broxburn.

Pepper was found stabbed to death. PIC: Facebook

Writing an emotional Facebook post, Andrana Caldwell said: “Someone has stabbed my baby to death.

“Someone last night decided to go into Pepper’s field and stab him last night.

“My baby is dead. Why would you do this to Pepper?”

Pepper was described as a “gentle character” with a “heart of gold”.

The post has so far been shared over 1,500 times, with hundreds of comments from people sharing their condolences.

One person wrote: “So sorry for your loss,” while another added: “I’m heartbroken for your loss”.

A police spokesman said: "Around 11am on Monday June 8, a Shetland Pony was found dead in a field behind Roman Camp Cottages, Broxburn.

"The pony had been stabbed and this is believed to have occurred between 9pm on Sunday June 7 and 11am on Monday June 8.

"Inquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances."

Heartbreak after West Lothian Shetland pony 'stabbed to death'