RENFREWSHIRE Council have launched an appeal to find the owners of 10 horses so a disgraced riding school can finally be evicted.

KL Liveries/Woodside Riding School have refused to vacate the premises since their lease was terminated in May.

An eviction decree was granted by Paisley Sheriff Court on Friday, October 2, but the eviction cannot take place as horses are still on the land.

The operators have blocked attempts to contact the horses' owners so the council and the SSPCA have launched a joint appeal to find them.

If new homes are not found for the animals they may need to be put down.

Councillor Marie McGurk, Convener of Renfrewshire Council's Environment and Infrastructure Policy Board, said: "This is an incredibly difficult situation and we are trying to resolve this is in the best possible way.

"The owners of KL Liveries are well aware of the situation but have been uncooperative in leaving the premises or making alternative arrangements for the animals.

"They should be contacting the owners of the horses directly.

"The situation has been going on for a long time and has caused concerned among the local community.

"We are appealing for anyone who owns one of these horses or anyone who may be in a position to offer these horses a home to come forward to the council as quickly as possible." The SSPCA has been working closely with the council but the charity does not have the space or facilities to take the horses.

They are currently looking for another animal welfare association who can provide assistance.

Scottish SPCA Deputy Chief Superintendent Tom Gatherer said, "This is a very sad situation, which could have been avoided had the operators of KL Liveries given proper consideration to the welfare of the horses in their care.

"Anyone who is still using KL Liveries to provide a livery service for their horse should come forward and claim their horse back immediately. "Any unclaimed horses will become the property of the council, who are within their rights to recoup costs from any owners who wish to have their horses returned to them at a later date.

"The council also has the option to sell the horses or seek alternative accommodation for them.

"The Scottish SPCA will continue to provide advice and assistance to the council where required and we would urge that the option of putting animals to sleep is only considered as a last resort before all other avenues are exhausted." Anyone who owns a horse at KL Liveries, or knows someone who owns one of these horses or any organisation who may be able to offer a home for one of these horses is asked to contact Renfrewshire Council's Estates Section 0141 842 5476.