ALLEGATIONS that horses were doped on the set of a film about the legendary Derby winner Shergar have been investigated by animal welfare associations and the police.
The Hunted, starring Hollywood hellraiser Mickey Rourke and filmed on the Isle of Man, centres on the Aga Khan-owned championship winning horse which was kidnapped by the IRA in 1983.
It is understood an investigation was launched after a member of the public claimed drugs were used to sedate a horse on the set near the village of Sulby.
A spokesman for the police in the capital, Douglas, said that an inquiry was launched but was unable to confirm reports that the inspector heading the investigation was still awaiting results of one of the blood tests.
In a statement, the manager of the Manx Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, said: ''Following a complaint from the general public, regarding the possible use of drugs in the horses being used in the filming of Shergar, our Animal Welfare Officer visited the site.
''On the occasions that our officer visited the set there was no indication drugs were being used or the animals mis-treated. Further to our visits other animal welfare organisations have taken responsibility for the investigations.''
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