Ashford man reunited with his stolen miniature horses

But lady luck shone done on him, because on Friday January 15 he received a call from the police saying they believed they had located the animals in a field in Kent.

Mr Nicholls was left paralysed from the waste down two years ago after a freak riding accident and was left unable to walk and ride, so bought the horses to walk and feed, and keep him in contact with his love of the animals.

He said: "I am really relieved. During the time they were missing I was very worried because I wasn't sure how they were being treated, and because of the snowy period I was scared they were going to be cold. I felt so happy when I received the call. It is great to have them back."

Mr Nicholls went down on the Friday he received the call with a horse box to bring them back, and upon returning, a party had gathered to see the animals.

He had been putting posters up all over the country, and contacting livery stables and riding schools so they could keep a look out, and he believed it paid off.

He said: "They were found by a member of Horsewatch who believed she saw animals of matching description in a field opposite her house. I already had about four people believing they spotted them before, but the police officer sounded so enthusiastic on the phone, so I thought it must be them."

The day before, (Thursday 14) Mr Nicholls appeared on London Tonight, so he believes the thieves must have seen it and realised the animals were 'too hot to handle.'

He said Tinkerball was quite nervous at first but is now recovering, while Bailey was the same as ever.

The police are still trying to find out who stole the horses, and are still asking for anyone who witnessed the theft, or with information, to contact them.

Mr Nicholls said: "I still hope they catch them. I wouldn't wish what happened to me on anyone, my life was turned upside down.

"I have been seeing them everyday, and the vet has said as long as no one makes any sudden movements around Tinkerbell she should recover in a few weeks."

Anyone who witnessed the incident or with any information should contact DC Chris Ewan at Staines CID on 0845 125 2222, quoting reference SL/09/10444, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.