A DISGRACED vet allowed his Shetland pony's hooves to grow so long it had difficulty in walking.

The 36in high pony, belonging to Alan Tait, of Meltham, was found in a field after a tip-off to the RSPCA, magistrates heard.

Prosecutor Anna McDonald told the Manchester court that Tait's animal, called Peter, was unkempt and in a "horrendous" condition.

She added: "Peter's hooves were turned up, giving the impression of Persian slippers."

Tait, 57, of Bent Ley Road, was sentenced to do 240 hours' unpaid community work.

He was also banned from keeping any animals for five years.

Tait was convicted in his absence in August of two counts of causing the pony unnecessary suffering.

It was found in a field in Failsworth, Manchester.

Miss McDonald told the city's magistrates that Tait had been struck off in 2003 for what was described as "disgraceful professional conduct" - claiming for work he hadn't carried out.

At Manchester Crown Court in May this year he was given a suspended six-month jail sentence for continuing to practise in Oldham while banned.

A vet said the pony's hooves had not been trimmed for about nine months and it must have been in a lot of pain.

Steve Milner, defending, said Tait had been a vet for 30 years with two thriving practices until he was truck off.

After his business collapsed he also lost his family and his home, it was said.

Mr Milner added: "My client has alcohol and mental problems and these offences occurred while he was under stress.

"He has come to the end of his tether in the UK and is considering a move to Africa to help with Christian Aid."

Tait, now on benefits of £72 a fortnight, was ordered to pay £500 costs. The prosecution had asked for £11,000.

Tait had practised at surgeries in Huddersfield Road, Holmfirth, and in Uppermill.

After the hearing RSPCA inspector Catherine Byrnes said: "He should have known better. He was aware of the pony's condition, but he ignored it.

"The pony suffered at least for six months."

She added: "Peter has been re-homed, so at least the story has a happy ending."