Prince Harry's animal cruelty charges?

Britain's Prince Harry has been accused of animal cruelty after photographs have emerged of him playing polo on a horse that had suffered injuries from his spurs.

Britain's Prince Harry has been accused of animal cruelty.

The 25-year-old royal was taking part in a polo match in July when the horse he was riding started to bleed from cuts caused by his spurs - the metal accessory attached to his feet to help control the animal.

The Hurlingham Polo Association - the body which governs the sport - are investigating after it was claimed Harry didn't stop riding the animal, despite blood pouring down its side.

Andrew Tyler, director of animal welfare charity Animal Aid, commented: "It was a heartless and utterly selfish thing to do."

St. James' Palace is adamant the prince stopped riding as soon as he noticed the injury and that the welfare of his horses is of the utmost importance to the polo fanatic.

A spokesperson told Mail Online: "Prince Harry was wearing regulation footwear (round-headed spurs) worn by many polo players. As soon as the cut was noticed, play was stopped and the horse was treated properly. The horse was absolutely fine and returned to the field immediately.

"Prince Harry takes the welfare of his horses incredibly seriously and has been riding this horse for many years. He has nothing but the highest respect for the polo ponies and would never knowingly do anything to cause the animals distress."

Rules of the sport state that any player "abusing" his pony by using his spurs excessively will face a fine of up to £50,000.

They read: "Any player intentionally striking another player or any pony with his stick, or abusing his pony by excessive use of the whip or spurts shall be severely penalised.Any spur likely to wound a horse is forbidden."