TWO men have been arrested in connection with an arson attack on stables in which three ponies were burnt alive.

Police have arrested a 21-year-old and a 24-year-old, after investigations into a blaze at stables off Lingdale High Street, near Skelton, east Cleveland, on Sunday, May 6.

Both men have been bailed pending inquiries.

Owner Michael Richardson, 61, said he plans to sell the land after the incident.

He told how he heard his beloved ponies Whiskey Mac, Little Fella and Beth screaming in distress, but was helpless to save them.

He said: "Seeing these horses on their last legs through the flames; hearing them and trying to get through the flames, but being beaten back, that is my nightmare.

"I could see them looking at me; they were my life.

"Whoever did this has done the ultimate to me; they can do no more.''

He said he plans to move away from the area, and said: "I will never ever forget. I could never have animals there again, I would never feel safe at night."

Leaving the site will be a wrench for Mr Richardson, who said the land resembled a wilderness when he took it over.

He ploughed the site, reseeded it, put up fences and built the stables himself.

He said he hoped that whoever buys the land will have peace and happiness.

There has been worldwide sympathy for Mr Richardson, with messages of support from the US being posted on the internet.

Anyone with information about the fire has been asked to call Cleveland Police on 01642-326326.

Mr Richardson will appear before magistrates this month, charged with common assault relating to an incident last August when he tackled five youths who had reportedly been firing an airgun.