NEW legislation which will see every horse, pony and donkey needing a passport, should not mean a struggle for owners, says the Country Land and Business Association.

Regional director Sue Harrison said the process was "relatively straightforward" and people should not believe they needed professional assistance from a vet.

"Many people appear to be under the misapprehension that the form must be completed by a vet. This is not so the process is relatively straightforward although you will need to obtain a form and allow yourself an hour or so to complete it."

The forms can be downloaded from the internet at www.horsepassportagency.org or requested via the Defra helpline on 0845-9335577.

"If you have a recognised breed you can also contact your breed society," said Mrs Harrison.

The legislation is aimed to protect the health of those who eat horsemeat in Europe by preventing horses entering the human food chain if they have been administered with drugs unfit for consumption.