Reassurance needed - I REALLY thought this was an old wives tale??

I'd put a big chain and padlock on the field gate not forgetting to get the hinge secured as it is so easy to lift a gate off at the hinge. Get and put up a you are being watched sign (I think you can get one from the NFU) Tell any neighbours to keep a lookout and also nearby horse owners. Having said all this I wouldn't worry too much as probably a myth or joke anyway, but if you take care of general security measures it makes it a bit more obvious if horses are being stolen and puts potential theives off if they have to take time to break into field. Also I'm not that far from you and I found a funny looking plat in one of my horses mane recently but am convinced it was just a wind tangle as said horse would not stand still long enough for it to be platted and if anyone tried to steal him god help them!!
 
There was a BHS investigation that proved that this was a myth. The police have also confirmed that there are NO recorded cases of horses being marked with plaits being stolen.
As for tightening up on security, maybe it would be a good idea if everyone had their security as tight as they can anyway? And their horses freezemarked of course.
 
I heard recently that horses whose manes had a single plait were being used by people who are into energy channelling/ spiritual stuff as these horses have been identified as being particularly receptive/ spiritual beings??!! Could be a load of ****...
 
I have a cob coloured filly and she always has plaits in her mane ! The wind just seems to tousle it all up and spin it round itself creating very plausible plaits.

There has been this rumour going around for a few months now and like other people have said that No horses has been reported stolen, however safety and vigilant and keep an eye open will not hurt, just as matter of course. I suggest you get in touch and make friends with your local rural police officer - they will be able to tell you if anything in the area has happened and if organised like our officer - will send out email and text alerts if you need to know anything or be alerted - car / van plate numbers / who has had tack stolen etc etc etc

However don't go into 'panic mode' as your horses are suppose to be relaxation not stressation !!
 
my arab gets these all the time and has for 20 years. Although i understand you being paranoid (i would be:D) its probably just knots in the mane. try not to panic
 
Its been so windy today I really wouldnt be concerned.

Besides unless all the horses have similar markings surely they would be able to spot the one they wanted. I cant really see someone wondering round the field with a torch trying to find the horse with the plait in its mane, it would take too long.
 
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