Torbay Conservative MP Kevin Foster, 43, SLAMMED the move by Torbay council, saying they were a “complete joke”.
He said: “Like most people living in the area I am surprised by the hardline attitudes councillors have decided to take about a pony.
“Obviously all the serious issues in Torbay have been resolved so they can focus their time on a pony pen at a pub. It’s just unbelievable!
“Perhaps the council are a little bit concerned given their own performance that Patrick is going to give them a run for their money and were worried about competition.
“For me Patrick’s title of Mayor of Cocklington was a light hearted move to promote the village.
“Even I did not realise that it would provoke Torbay Council into making itself a complete joke.”
He also revealed that he has struggled to work with them on serious planning enforcement issues.
The council previously banned under 10s rugby teams from using their pitches just behind The Drum Inn due to noise complaints.
Foster, who has been MP for the region since 2015, continued: “Words failed me when I heard last night.
“Things like Patrick going in the pub generate interest in Cocklington who are less likely to visit it for a cream tea.
“It is a beautiful part of our valley for people to visit.”
Patrick Cain, who lives nearby in Torquay, has already created a petition to make the council allow the pony back on the boozer’s lawn.
He said: “We want this decision changed. We want them to allow Patrick to graze in the pub garden where the public can delight in watching him enjoy the grass.
“Torbay Council need to stop being so petty and allow a little joy into the lives of residents and visitors alike!”
Patrick was given the special title at a ceremony last Saturday (23 July) after hundreds backed an online campaign to elect him to the post after the death of previous mayor Don Mills.
Caroline Shapter added: “Good heavens what is wrong with Torbay Council?
“No compassion for animals or people that help others.
“I am more than disgusted.”
Joannie Dunn, from Torquay, raged: “How much has he bought to Torbay for tourists – disgusting!”
Ingrid Marsh added: “I was absolutely horrified to read what had happened. Cockington is sadly diminished.
“He is a beautiful and gentle soul. Far superior to anybody trying to remove him. Cockington should be demanding he stays – he has a global reach now.”
Julie Anne Swinford, from Wiltshire, added: “There are some selfish, petty people about who need to get a life.
“What possible harm is this doing to anyone? What a world we live in!”
A Torbay Council spokesman said: “We can confirm that following a complaint from a member of the public, an enforcement case has been opened into the erection of unauthorised timber fencing and the display of advertisements within the beer garden of the Drum Inn, Cockington.
“This is in a designated conservation area and is next to a listed building, and we need to ensure historic areas like this are protected from unauthorised development.
“The Council has not received or approved any planning applications for the fencing or the change of use for horses.
“Officers have now raised concerns over the suitability of these unauthorised works, the potential change of use of land and the impact this has on the conservation area and nearby listed building.
“We have written to the landlord of the public house advising that the works are considered a breach of planning legislation.
“We are now encouraging them to engage with the Planning Department to find a more acceptable solution, to either remove the works or to submit a retrospective planning application.”
The Drum Inn has been contacted for comment.
Hannah, 37, continued: “It’s been really traumatic. We’re just shocked by it.”
