The Horse Trust wishes to clarify its position regarding the Green Paper “No Animal Left Behind” (May 2021). Contributions to the publication were provided by the 50 organisations named. The Horse Trust’s expertise lies solely within the equine sector and as such supplied input to the points relating only to horses. The Horse Trust was…
The Horse Trust is today celebrating the progress made by the horses, ponies and donkeys rescued from Spindles Farm three years ago. Of the more than 100 horses, ponies and donkeys rescued from Spindles Farm between 4 and 9 January 2008, the 14 considered most “at risk” were taken to The Horse Trust in Speen,…
Our lovely Alfie of the Met Police has been put to sleep after suffering a catastrophic fracture to his leg. Alfie was an absolute sweetie and we so wished him a long, long retirement but it wasn’t to be. Here is what his former rider; Sergeant Jon Taylor wanted to say about this very special…
Horse Trust resident, retired Metropolitan Police horse, Oliver. Photo credits: Christine Dunnington Photography Is it too late to say it? Happy New Year! As we look back on an incredible year, we want to say a huge thank you to you – our amazing supporters. Without your generosity, we simply couldn’t provide the care our…
We would like to say a huge Thank You to our friends at Lancashire Mounted Police, and their community of supporters, for raising an incredible £3,270.80 for The Horse Trust. This generous contribution was made possible through their Mounted Calendar ‘Lancashire Police Horses 2024’ sale, marking their first year back at this community-favourite feature after…
There’ll be ‘neigh’ more work for police horse Pern who is retiring after 16 years with the force. The chestnut gelding, who is over 17 hands high, has been a ‘mane player’ with the Mounted Section since he was just four. Now he will see out the rest of his days at equine charity The…
On the 26th October 2012 we welcomed our newest resident Cordoba, a 15 year old Bay Gelding. Affectionately known as ‘Dobes’, he joins us from The RAF Halton Saddle Club. The Saddle Club aims to ensure personnel from all ranks and experience have the chance to become involved in horse riding. They are also Pony…
Equine charities forging new welfare partnership with online course for farriers The Horse Trust and Redwings Horse Sanctuary have united to create an online course for farriers on Equine Welfare and legislation, as part of our ongoing commitment to improving the lives of equines in the UK. One of the big issues we face as…
As a beautiful young pony canters across the field, not a care in the world, it is hard to imagine that only a year ago this same pony was found close to death dumped on the side of the road. Teddy was only 8-weeks old when he was found as a starving and abandoned foal,…
A young foal is fighting for his life after being found abandoned on a roadside in Buckinghamshire. Eight week old colt Theodore, fondly known as Teddy, was found starving and alone with no sign of his mother. Life is tough enough for orphaned foals like Teddy. Not only does he have to survive without his…
Yearling Dillon, who was rescued earlier this year, has been found a new home thanks to an equine rehoming scheme run by The Horse Trust based in Speen, Buckinghamshire. Dillon, a 12hh iron grey yearling was abandoned in London Colney Hertfordshire last February. He had been dumped to die, but was luckily found by chance….
This Bank Holiday Monday we were delighted to celebrate abandoned foal Teddy’s 1st birthday at The Horse Trust. Teddy was found starving and abandoned, all alone without his mother on a busy roadside in Buckinghamshire in September 2012. He was rescued by Thames Valley Police with help from a local Buckinghamshire Councillor and brought to…
Tyrone, one of the Royal Mews’ most treasured Windsor Greys, has arrived at The Horse Trust in Buckinghamshire to begin retirement. After 15 years of loyal service at the heart of Britain’s most historic royal occasions, we are honoured to welcome him to his new home and to be reunited with his family. In an…
On Friday 3rd August 2012 The Horse Trust in Speen, Buckinghamshire, welcomed five very special new residents. All retiring from the Military after many years of service. One of the busiest ceremonial seasons of recent years. View photos of our 5 new retirees here The oldest equine charity in the world, The Horse Trust has…
As a home of rest which specialises in providing respite and retirement to working horses, we understand that every horse that arrives to us has their own following of people that love and care about them. This may be fans, or in this case previous riders. Annabelle was issued to Metropolitan Police Mounted Officer Alison…
The Horse Trust based in Speen, Buckinghamshire has sadly said goodbye to Spindles Farm rescue horse Angel who was a firm favourite with visitors and staff alike. Angel had survived the horrors of extreme neglect along with over 100 other horses, ponies and donkeys rescued from the Amersham site in 2008, despite being in her…
Photo credits: Burghley Horse Trials / Libby Law Atticus, a striking 17.2hh bay Irish Sports Horse with a gentle yet bold personality, received a ceremonial retirement from The Household Division in the Main Arena at Burghley Horse Trials on Sunday 8th September. This marked the end of an extraordinary 14-year career, during which he served…
Today was the last day of the Olympic Three-Day Event, held at the stunning Versailles Palace Gardens. We’re glad to hear that it has been a successful weekend for all teams, including our very own home team, GB, who have just won gold! Success like this doesn’t happen without an extraordinary ‘behind-the-scenes’ effort. Jim Green,…
The recent incident involving a police responder immobilising a young heifer with a vehicle has caused outcry from many quarters. Viewing this approach looks terrible and it undoubtedly is. But it is not the first time that UK police have been criticised for the way they dealt with loose animals.* With that in mind, there…
Beau joins us from Brixton Say a big hello to Beau, a 14hh, 17-year-old Piebald cob gelding. Beau has just retired from the Ebony Horse Club. Base in Brixton they help to transform the lives of disadvantaged young people in the heart South London, through horse care. This charming fellow was used in lessons at…
Boris was purchased on the 29/10/1998 at the age of 4, He passed his initial training at Imber court with flying colours, his trainer described him as “excellent from day 1. ”His first posting was to Shoreditch Police station in Hackney and he very quickly became the horse that escorted the other horses as he…
A little after Easter we welcomed Caton on his retirement from Lancashire Constabularies’ Mounted Branch. At 16 years of age Caton has served his community tirelessly for 12 years but a combination of lameness and gastric ulcers mean it is now time for this public servant to head to pastures new for his well-earned retirement….
Thames Valley Police Horse Spartan has retired to The Horse Trust after spending six years’ serving the public. Thames Valley Police Mounted Section Spartan, a 17.1hh Clydesdale cross fondly known as Sparky, served with the Thames Valley Police Mounted Section. He protected the public on daily patrols and even faced large crowds and occasionally even…
Former Essex Police horse Trojan has returned home to The Horse Trust from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) after his second round of emergency surgery this year. Trojan was first admitted to the RVC in September 2013 He was treated for tooth spurs, cracked teeth and a severe sinus infection. He had been continuing to…
Horse Trust rescue residents, Ernie and Sam, grazing in the Chilterns. Photo credits: Natalie, Senior Groom. A ground breaking discovery has been made in the quest to understand and combat Equine Grass Sickness (EGS), a devastating disease that has baffled researchers for over a century. Scientists have identified a neurotoxin, with actions similar to snake…
The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment (HCMR) is pleased to announce that the Life Guards soldiers and five Military Working Horses (MWH) injured in London on 24th April 2024, are continuing to make remarkable progress in their recovery. Three of the horses injured in the incident are now back on duty and, against all expectations, are looking…
Horse charity The Horse Trust, together with the RSPCA and World Horse Welfare are appealing for information after 3 emaciated horses were abandoned and left to die in Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire. RSPCA Inspector, Rachel Smith, and World Horse Welfare Field Officer, Nick White, found three bay mares in a large cornfield near to the…
The Horse Trust is delighted to welcome back one of our former residents, Chiswick. He originally came to us for several months respite back in February 2012. However, after 12 years’ service, he is now permanently retiring from the Metropolitan Police. Chiswick has shown exceptional bravery during his career. In particular during the student riots…
The Horse Trust’s 2020 Christmas Raffle – Winners Announced! Thank you to everybody who bought a ticket for our online Christmas raffle. We will be starting to contact winners from tomorrow but you can help us out by checking the lists below, and get in touch by email if you see your name! We…
Cloud is an absolute beauty. This 22 year old mare served at the Royal Mews for many years before spending some time at Hampton Court as a broodmare. One of her daughters, Claudia, is still a star of the Windsor Greys and on many occasions, the mother and daughter team were paired together as either…
After a very grand total of 14 years as an essential member and poster boy for The Royal Mews, elegant Windsor Grey Daniel has joined his fellow Royal Mews veterans Flint, Marsa and Big Tom in the beautiful surroundings of The Horse Trust’s Home of Rest for Horses in Buckinghamshire. Daniel served at The Royal…
In January, The Horse Trust rescued Pixie, a 12hh grey mare, who was found abandoned. I was asked to look after her as I’ve worked quite a lot with nervous horses. When Pixie arrived she was extremely nervous of people and I couldn’t go anywhere near her. If I went in her paddock, she would…
We have some very exciting news! This month our lovely chap Domino flies the nest onto a new loan home. This was quite an emotional day for us as Domino has become such a big part of The Horse Trust family. Domino was resscued from a field in Hertfordshire in 2012. He arrived with Jenga…
Are you interested in learning about caring for donkeys? Don’t miss the Donkey Care Induction Day, on Wednesday 22 August and Wednesday 29 August 2012 from 10:00am – 4:00pm at The Horse Trust. The Donkey Sanctuary offers a wide range of courses aimed ‘to facilitate learning and educational opportunities by promoting the value and intelligence…
Pandora (Dora) is a 15hh bay mare thought to be in her late teens. Dora was found abandoned, severely underweight and in desperate need of care and veterinary treatment. Dora arrived at The Horse Trust on Saturday 15th September after being rescued in a joint operation between Buckinghamshire Trading Standards and the RSPCA. In addition…
On Sunday 28th October, our gorgeous Spindles Farm survivor, Duke, decided to attempt a daring escape from his field. After making it over the fence and on to the yard, he climbed up a huge mountain of soil. However, after making it all the way to the top, he couldn’t quite work out how to…
We sadly lost handsome Dunkirk, a real character amongst our herd in February 2017. Dunkirk, a striking 17.2hh served in the Blues and Royals, Household Cavalry for 12 years. He participated in numerous Ceremonial Parades, including the Royal Wedding in 2011 where he was chosen as the Standard Bearer’s horse thanks to his confidence and…
This stunning boy is a Dutch Warmblood who has been a star of the Defence Animal Training Regiment for many years. His main role was to help train military riding instructors and to pick up some rosettes along the way representing the DATR in military competitions. It’s thanks to horses like El-Alamein that military instructors…
Following British Horse racing’s decision to resume racing in a managed way, horse world leaders continue to monitor the situation and will provide information if the situation develops and once the full extent of the equine flu outbreak is known. The Horse trust recommends that owners follow the guidelines below as a precaution: Actions for…
It is with a heavy heart we say Farewell Albert. The extremely handsome Albert reached the age of 23 and arrived at The Horse Trust back in March 2015 after serving in The Thames Valley Police Mounted Branch for an impressive 10 years. Albert was an exceptional police horse who has patrolled many cities and…
Our gorgeous Ganemedes, the 15.3hh little chap of the Met Police, has said his final farewell. This 16 year old little dynamo had served as a police horse in the capital for 11 years and was honoured with a royal retirement to us by our Patron HRH The Princess Royal two years ago after suffering…
Our beloved Romulus passed away after being rushed to hospital at the RVC for emergency surgery. The surgeons found he had a severely twisted colon, one of the worst they’d ever seen. He made it through the extensive surgery and woke up from the anaesthetic but tragically he didn’t make it through recovery and passed…
It has been a sad week at The Horse Trust as we very suddenly and unexpectedly lost Chiswick (Daniel) one of our retired police horses and a much-loved member of our herd. Chiswick originally came to us for several months respite back in February 2012. However, after 12 years’ service, he permanently retired from the…
Farewell, Falstaff It is with the utmost sadness that we must inform our loyal supporters of the news of Mr. Screwemtight’s passing at the age of 20. Mr. Screwemtight (aka. Falstaff, or Fally) had been battling a serious tendon tear over the last few months, which, after thorough treatment and investigation, proved unrecoverable. Falstaff loved…
Rest in peace, Mull It is with great regret and sadness that The Horse Trust must announce that our much-loved resident, Mull, was put to sleep at the impressive age of 24 years. Mull arrived at The Horse Trust in 2016 with fellow police horse Kilsyth. We are so pleased that Mull got to…
We know so many of you were following the progress of beautiful Lochnagar after his severe mystery head injury. We had thought that after Royal Windsor Show Lochnagar might be coming home as he’d been showing signs of improvement. Very sadly disaster then struck. At the same time as his head pain was becoming unmanageable;…
On the 6th November, The Horse Trust had had to say goodbye to a real favourite, 2015’s Mr January himself, Dodger. Dodger came to us for retirement two and a half years ago after 16 years of service with Greater Manchester Police. This big, remarkably soppy boy was a huge hit with the team here…
Looking at 17.2hh gelding Trojan, nobody could doubt that he’s a fine looking, strong horse. But following his recent health scare it would also be fair to say that Trojan is as hard as nails! Vets described Trojan as exceptional after they discovered he had been continuing to happily eat as normal with tooth spurs…
On the 21st October 2012 one of our lovely former residents, Hagrid, took part in the London Riding Horse Parade and Horse Show, in London’s Hyde Park. Hagrid had a long career as a wheeler in a team of six horses serving in The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery. He retired to The Horse Trust…
Freda and her foal Felix arrived with us back in March this year. We couldn’t talk about them until now for legal reasons but it is now time to share their story with you. Five year old Freda and her very nervous foal were rescued from a field in Hertfordshire, both seriously underweight and riddled…
We have some very special news to share with you; four of our wonderful horses are newly available to sponsor! They’ve all been very brave in different ways, and we’re so proud to be able to champion their lives through our sponsorship scheme. Whether you have an affinity to police horses, are touched by the…
[maxbutton id=”19″ url=”https://horsetrust.org.uk/portfolio-item/maryland/” text=”Sponsor Maryland” ] Please give a warm welcome to our newest sponsor horse, Maryland, affectionately known as Mary. After an incredible 15 years as a ceremonial carriage horse at the Royal Mews, Mary retired to our Home of Rest for Horses in 2022, where she is now lovingly spending her days in…
Four brave police horses from the Greater Manchester Police have retired to The Horse Trust’s sanctuary. The four horses have notched up nearly 50 years service between them and have been involved in a wide range of police duties, including policing public order situations, crowd control at football matches and city centre patrols. Three of…
We’re pleased to report Goliath’s road to recovery. Back in October 2019 one of our much-loved residents Goliath came into the stables with a very interesting ‘mushroom like’ growth on his frog. Goliath, a 20-year-old for 8 years had never experienced anything like this before! Luckily, with our resident vet Nicola Housby-Skeggs and farrier Dan Harman…
As a Home of Rest for retired equine civil servants we have more than our fair share of goodbyes. It is our duty and our privilege to care for these wonderful horses in their twilight years and also to know when it’s best for them to let them go for that final sleep. It it…
We are truly heartbroken. Having had a successful surgery to treat a very rare bone cyst in his central tarsal bone, Mr Twister / Bert, suffered a post-operative complication and had to be put to sleep on the 18th September. Mr Twister aka Bert, had suffered many injuries in his life that required medication so…
Goodnight Clyde It has been a very difficult time for us here at The Horse Trust and we are devastated that we must share this news with you. It is with great sadness that we had to say our final goodbyes to our lovely Clyde at the age of 29. Almost 9 years ago, in…
It is with the greatest sadness and heaviest heart we inform you that last week we said “Goodnight Gucci”, our final goodbyes to our beloved Gucci at the age of 15. Gorgeous Gucci arrived here at The Horse Trust in 2019 after serving in the Windsor Horse Rangers. This plucky little lady served a number…
Stunning 17hh chestnut Pern retired to The Horse Trust in February 2012 after spending 16 years with Northumbria Police. Sadly, due to the effects of unmanageable arthritic pain he was to enjoy only a couple of years of his well-earned retirement after years of loyal service. Pern, a true gentleman, who adored attention, had fulfilled…
We caught up with Courtney, Senior Groom at The Horse Trust, to chat about her passion for caring for veteran horses, her unique career journey, and her Horse Trust favourites… Hi Courtney! How long have you been with The Horse Trust, and what brought you here? I’ve been here for four years now. I started…
Welcome back to Hay There, our monthly spotlight where we celebrate the amazing team and volunteers who make The Horse Trust so special. This month, we’re delighted to introduce you to Gill, a devoted volunteer who has been with us for 15 wonderful years. Gill’s story is as fascinating as it is inspiring, and we’re…
This month we caught up with the wonderful Grace! Despite being one of the younger Horse Trust team members, she has been here for many years starting as a Saturday groom, and progressing through various roles during that time. Grace is now a part of the Knowledge and Skills team as a Training Officer, working…
Welcome back to Hay There, our monthly spotlight where we celebrate The Horse Trust team. This month, we’re thrilled to introduce you to Harvey, one of our long-standing volunteer grooms. Harvey has been with us nearly every Friday since 2016, working closely with our Equine Care Team. Horses have been a lifelong passion for Harvey,…
We enjoy sharing stories from our team, and we thought it was about time we brought you closer to our wonderful CEO of almost 14 years! Jeanette has been with our charity through many our our key moments in recent history, and has seen us evolve alongside developments into the understanding of equine wellbeing. Jeanette…
Every month we shine a light on a different member of our team, highlighting all of the brilliant work they do for The Horse Trust, as well as sharing with you their interesting and often unique backgrounds! This month we caught up with the wonderful Jo, who volunteers at our Home of Rest for Horses…
This month we spoke with our wonderful Senior Groom, Lotte. At just 20 years old, Lotte has already made a big impact at The Horse Trust. From joining as a groom in 2021 to being promoted to Senior Groom at just 18, her passion for horses shines through every day. How long have you been…
For this month’s edition of Hay There, we had a chat with Natalie, one of our wonderful and dedicated Senior Grooms. Natalie is an animal lover with a particular soft spot for dogs – and, of course, horses. Her career path has been fascinating, leading her to the role she holds today, and the way…
This month, we sat down with Poppy, our Marketing and Design Executive. Poppy has been with us for over two years, originally starting in a different role as part of the Equine Care Team. She’s now been able to combine her two big passions, and her creativity continues to inspire us every day! How long…
We had a lovely chat this month with one of our longest standing volunteers, Tim. He has been here since 2012, and has seen many of our residents come, and go to those fresh pastures over the rainbow bridge. Tim helps every Monday and Thursday, and he brightens our days with plenty of stories. We…
From South Africa’s show rings to the peaceful fields of the Chiltern Hills, Zara has always followed her heart when it comes to horses. Now working as our Training Coordinator, she combines her teaching background, equine knowledge, and a sprinkle of drama skills to help new starters settle into life at The Horse Trust. We…
Our gentle giant Warwick had been doing well in hospital and looked all set to come home in time for Christmas but tragically his fever spiked and he had a massive bleed from his lung. The vets and nurses did absolutely everything they could but in the small hours of the morning on the 21st…
28 year old Henry has served with Scropton Riding for the Disabled for 11 years and has now started his life of leisure! No-one has told Henry he’s 28, he’s an absolute firecracker with more energy than most ponies a quarter of his age. Welcome Henry, your name and age may make you sound pretty…
A big Thank you for joining in our online show and well done to all participants of the HHH 2020 Horse and Dog Shows! We had so many wonderful entries and we loved going through them all. Each place will receive a special rosette! If you haven’t already can ALL that were placed please email info@horsetrust.org.uk with…
We are so excited to announce that the show will go on! Horses, Hounds and Heroes 2020 – HHH2020 – will become virtual! On the 28th June 2020 we will be running HHH online. There will be a fantastic fun packed day of equine extravaganzas! For starters, we will be running a virtual Horse Show,…
The Horse Trust has been caring for the twilight years of military working horses since the Boer War, after 130 years, losing these amazing boys and girls at the end of their lives of service never gets any easier. It is our duty to them and our final act of love to know when we…
Here’s handsome Huntsman, another of our newbies. He has had an amazing career. He’s a 20-year-old 17hh Irish Draught who spent most of his working life with the Metropolitan Police Mounted Section (MET). Then, a couple of years ago, the police nationally commissioned an exciting piece of research looking at the role of police horses…
We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Bruce Bladon, a distinguished veterinary surgeon and the upcoming British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) President. Why the connection to The Horse Trust? In 1995 The Horse Trust funded Bruce’s Residency, an intensive 3-year specialist training programme at Bristol University. Resident’s work hard during this period, not…
[maxbutton id=”19″ url=”https://horsetrust.org.uk/portfolio-item/hyderabad/” text=”Sponsor Hyderabad” ] Photo credits: Christine Dunnington We are honoured to announce our newest Sponsor Horse; retired Military Working Horse (MWH), Hyderabad! Many of you will have already followed Hyderabad’s journey with The Horse Trust after his Ceremonial retirement in London. This is no normal retirement for a MWH; Hyderabad was held…
Our newest arrival Alfie worked with the police for 14 years and has come to The Horse Trust on extended respite while he is receiving some on-going veterinary care. He is a stunning 17hh chestnut with three white socks. In the police, Alfie was mostly used as a patrol horse and is described as an…
Photo credits: British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) We are incredibly proud of The Horse Trust’s Research & Policy Director, Jan Rogers, for winning the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) Equine Welfare Award at this year’s prestigious awards ceremony during BEVA Congress earlier this month. This well-deserved recognition is a testament to her groundbreaking work on…
Back in November 2012 when Jenga arrived at the Trust he was about five months old. He, and little Domino were rescued from the side of a Hertfordshire road. They were both close to death’s door and were sent immediately to the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) for emergency treatment. A combination of bacterial infection and…
Rescue pony Jenga continues to thrive in his new home. It is now hard to imagine him as the same sick and lifeless foal that arrived. He is now 7 years old and stands at 14.2hh. And we’re pleased to say that he recently won his first horse agility competition! Jenga was rescued from a…
As a home of rest which specialises in providing respite and retirement to working horses, we understand that every horse that arrives to us has their own following of people that love and care about them. This may be fans, or in this case previous riders. Kathleen, a striking 16.2hh bay mare served with the…
Thames Valley Police horse Titan on Wednesday arrived at The Horse Trust’s sanctuary in Speen, Buckinghamshire where he will spend at least six months on respite. Titan, a 18.3hh Shire-cross, weighs over a tonne, making him the largest police horse in the UK*. He has been working for Thames Valley Police for the last nine…
Photo credits: Thames Valley Police In a heartwarming farewell to a distinguished career with Thames Valley Police (TVP), legendary police horse Atlas, who led the Queen’s funeral procession alongside former Horse Trust resident, Aurora, has arrived at his new retirement home in the Chiltern Hills. The Horse Trust is delighted to welcome Atlas to our…
Lochnagar has been in the wars this week; he’s managed somehow to sustain some pretty nasty injuries to his face. We are not sure of the cause of his accident, but he managed to give us a pretty big scare when we found him with his eye completely swollen and closed and his forehead bleeding….
Dickens, a horse that has been with the Greater Manchester Police force for 15 years has retired to The Horse Trust’s Home of Rest for Horses in Buckinghamshire. 21-year-old Dickens, a 16hh chestnut gelding, is one of the force’s best police horses, according to Mima Manning, Stable Manager at Greater Manchester Police. “Dickens is one…
Piglet and Rosie, two rescued Shetland ponies, have been reunited at The Horse Trust in Speen, Buckinghamshire, after six months apart. 10hh skewbald mare Rosie has been living at The Horse Trust since July 2010 when she was rescued by the RSPCA. 9hh pony Piglet arrived at the sanctuary in September 2010 after being found…
Mud fever is a painful condition and as the name suggests has traditionally been associated with the wet muddy conditions where the bacteria Dermatophilus congolensis thrives. Mud fever, also known as pastern dermatitis or ‘cracked heel’ tends to affect the back of the pastern (the sloping part of the horse’s leg between the fetlock and the hoof)…
After weeks of snow in January our drove of donkeys were so delighted by the first signs of sunshine they put on what can only be described as a donkey ballet! The Prima Ballerina was thirty-four year old Troy who showed her younger companions Gladys, Nora, Lola and Briar that there is life in the…
We’re delighted to introduce Shadow, one of the newest ponies you can now sponsor at The Horse Trust. At 18 years old, Shadow is a charming Shetland Pony with a gentle soul and a story that reminds us why your support is so vital. Shadow’s Beginning Shadow was one of nine equines rescued from a…
If you’re visiting us on a weekend, you might spot a friendly face around the yard – that’s Trish, our wonderful Visitor Engagement Ambassador! With a lifelong passion for horses and many years of carriage driving experience, Trish is thrilled to be back doing what she loves most: spending time with horses and sharing that…
Merlin retires from an illustrious career This 21-year-old grey gelding stands a whopping 17.2hh and retires after 15 years illustrious service with Defence Animal Training Regiment. Merlin has taken part in many high-profile parades including the Queen’s Birthday Parade; State Visits; The Lord Mayor’s Show; The Royal Wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge;…
Gwain, an 18hh grey gelding, is coming to The Horse Trust for a year’s respite because he suffers from intermittent lameness caused by navicular syndrome. It is hoped that his condition will improve by next year so he can return to the Metropolitan Police Mounted Branch to help police the London 2012 Olympics. Jon Taylor,…
Miracles are incredible when they happen. Today marks a very proud day for all the team here at The Horse Trust. Our gorgeous rescue resident Maggie has successfully been rehomed. This really is a happy ending to what was a very sad life for this beautiful mare before she came to The Horse Trust. As…
Spindles farm survivor and modern day Black Beauty Duke had a visit from our saddler recently. Duke received his new saddle back in May 2015, which was supplied by the lovely Matthew Crippen. He came to The Horse Trust today for a routine visit to make sure Dukes saddle was still fitting correctly. Matthew starts…
Only days after we welcomed Huntsman to the Home of Rest we are pleased to tell you that his last operational mission was a complete success. After an amazing career with the Metropolitan Police Mounted Section (MET) Huntsman was loaned to Gloucestershire Constabulary to help with a pilot scheme to examine the value of a…
On the 23rd October 2012 we welcomed our newest resident Jolly, all the way from the Ebony Horse Club in Brixton. The Ebony Horse Club is a charity which helps disadvantaged children and young people in South London by giving them access to horse riding and outdoor activities. Jolly was a much-loved resident at Ebony…
Nine Horses and Ponies continue the next stage of their Recovery Journey at The Horse Trust following a sentencing for Cruelty at Cornwall Horse Therapy Centre. Sarah Baker, Darren Laker and James Baker were sentenced at Truro Crown Court yesterday (29 February) in a case brought by the RSPCA, regarding animal welfare offences relating to…
On the 1st November The Horse Trust welcomed a new arrival from Thames Valley Police. Otto, a 17 year old bay gelding, has a slightly nervous disposition and was nicknamed Melman by his officers, after the scared giraffe from the film ‘Madagascar’.. Police work can be very stressful for horses, both mentally and physically. It…
The Horse Trust last week, vaccinated 72 of its 92 residents against equine influenza to implement its recently updated vaccination policy. The charity runs a sanctuary for rescued, elderly and retired working horses, ponies and donkeys in Speen, Buckinghamshire. Until now, the charity minimised the risk of equine influenza by ensuring that all new admissions…
Riding for the Disabled 30-year-old Scooby, a 11.2hh Shetland X New Forest piebald gelding, has worked at the New Yatt Riding for the Disabled Association (NYRDA) in North Leigh, West Oxfordshire since 1994. For nearly two decades he gave riding sessions to children with physical and learning disabilities. When children moved on to bigger horses…
Here we have double trouble that is Mr Jon Taylor and our resident Gawain. Sergeant Jon Taylor gave 32 years combined service in the Police and Military. During his service in the Metropolitan Police Mounted Regiment, gorgeous Gawain was issued to his team for 3 years. In this time, Jon and Gawain became great companions,…
Today, The Horse Trust welcomes two new arrivals from the Metropolitan Police to its Home of Rest for Horses in Buckinghamshire. Police horse Chiswick was formally on active service at the Metropolitan Police’s Hyde Park stables, whilst Brigadier was based at their training establishment at Imber Court. 17.3hh Chiswick, whose stable name is Daniel, has…
Merseyside Police horse Cracker on Tuesday 4th October travelled around 200 miles to The Horse Trust’s sanctuary for rescued and retired working horses in Buckinghamshire. 16.3hh bay gelding Cracker, who is nine years old, is described by Merseyside Police’s stable manager Lindsay Gaven as their best-natured horse. “Cracker is one of the most lovable horses…
One of the largest police horses in the country arrived at The Horse Trust today for retirement after serving with Cleveland Police for over ten years. Clyde, officially called Stranton, is a thoroughbred cross chestnut gelding standing at 19 hands high and weighing a tonne. Sergeant Paul Johnson, from the Cleveland Police Mounted Section, said…
The Horse Trust funds some very important veterinary research work into health conditions that can affect our horses, and many other horses as well. Conditions such as osteoarthritis, strangles, colic and liver disease. If the impact of the work we fund is going to make a difference to all horses, not just the ones in…
The Horse Trust would like to thank The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment (HCMR) for helping raise awareness of us and our work. They have been sharing Facebook posts about our five new military arrivals, helping us to reach 2000 ‘Likes’ over the weekend. We have a great relationship with the HCMR and have several of…
If you’ve signed-up to receive the The Horse Trust newsletter, then keep an eye out for our latest issue! The Horse Trust Winter 2020 Newsletter will be arriving with you soon, and is packed full of fabulous stories and photos of our amazing residents. Our newsletter is sent out twice a year and is completely…
On a cold Friday in February, The Horse Trust received a call from their colleagues at the RSPCA and World Horse Welfare about three emaciated mares found abandoned in a corn field in Chalfont St. Peter, Buckinghamshire. One mare was so ill that she had to be put to sleep by vets immediately. The remaining…
After a long, distinguished career policing the streets of ThamesValley and surrounding forces, police horse Clyde received a Chief Constable’s commendation at Royal Ascot on Saturday (18/6), which was presented by HM The Queen and Sara Thornton, Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police. Clyde will be retiring to The Horse Trust in the next few…
Rescued mare, Polly, who came to The Horse Trust in an emaciated state back in February, has made another new friend. Polly is now allowed to graze out in a small paddock all day and her new daytime neighbour is 16.1hh ex-Cavalry Black, Venture. Twenty-three year old Venture has recently been diagnosed with a foot…
The Horse Trust, a charity caring for the retirement and respite needs of working horses based in Speen, Buckinghamshire, is delighted to welcome Benjy from Wyfold Riding for the Disabled. Benjy, a 16 year old, 14.3hh, black gelding with a white star and some white on his muzzle, has retired to The Trust as he…
The team here at The Horse Trust are very proud that in a space of year since we launched our rehoming scheme, all of our horses have found homes for life. We are so delighted of this achievement and we hope we can continue to change the lives for our next residents who will be…
The previously longest serving and oldest horse in the British Army has peacefully passed away in retirement at The Horse Trust, where we have been providing retirement and respite for military and other working horses since we were founded in the 19th Century. As we approach the centenary of the commencement of World War One…
Thoroughbred gelding Duke who was rescued from Spindles Farm in 2008 has been working hard with his trainer Jane as they prepare for their first competition of the year. Duke won his first ever dressage competition last year and went on to compete in show-jumping as well. Following his success, Jane is hopeful Duke will…
Polly, one of the mares found abandoned in a corn field in Buckinghamshire in February, has continued to show signs of improvement at The Horse Trust. Polly has settled in well to her new home in the Special Care Unit on the main yard. She likes watching the world go by from her stable, and…
Rest in peace, Venture. As a Home of Rest for retired equine civil servants we have more than our fair share of goodbyes. It is our duty and our privilege to care for these wonderful horses in their twilight years and also to know when it’s best for them to let them go for that…
A horse from an Oxfordshire Riding for the Disabled group has retired to The Horse Trust’s sanctuary after 19 years service, during which she has given hundreds of rides to disabled people. 26-year-old Topsy, a 14.3 hh skewbald mare, has worked at the New Yatt Riding for the Disabled Association (NYRDA) in North Leigh, West…
RIP Bud We almost can’t believe we are writing this so soon after we lost our dear Iceini. It is with a heavy heart that very suddenly we had to say our final goodbyes to Bud, aged 21, who retired to The Horse Trust in 2019 after 14 years of loyal public service. Bud the…
It is with the greatest sadness that our darling Churchill lost his recent fight with illness and we had to let him go at the age of 25. We had the absolute pleasure in August 2017 of welcoming Churchill to The Horse Trust for his retirement. After an impressive 16 years’ service in The Household…
RIP Iceini It is with the heaviest of hearts that we inform you of the passing of a dear old friend. At 23 years old, we said our final goodbyes to Iceini after 12 wonderful years of retirement at The Horse Trust. Iceini’s Incredible Career Iceini served in the Thames Valley Police Mounted Unit (TVP)…
It is with the greatest sadness and heaviest heart we inform you that this week we said our final goodbyes to our beloved Jack Priday at the age of 26. RIP Jack Priday. The handsome Jack Priday arrived here at The Horse Trust in 2011 after serving 11 years in The Greater Manchester Police Mounted…
Rest in peace, Oscar We are heartbroken to announce that this month we said our final farewell to Oscar at the amazing age of 26. Oscar arrived at The Horse Trust in December 2019 after an impressive 13 years’ service as an officer’s charger for the Household Division. Oscar, a striking 17.2hh Irish Sport Horse, was…
Fly high, Pilot As you can imagine, it has been a very sad and difficult time for us here at The Horse Trust and we have lost one too many of our family members in recent times. We are heartbroken to announce that this week we said our last goodbyes to our beloved Pilot at…
It’s been an incredibly tough few days. After having to say our final goodbye to senior resident Vernon, we then lost one of our biggest characters very suddenly. Rocket Ron, also affectionately known as Rubber Face, was found down and in a very bad way in the field during morning checks and as the team…
Handsome Harlequin of the Met Police suddenly became very ill in January. After trying everything we could, we had to make the decision to say goodbye. Harly was an all-round superstar and had already survived the emergency removal or a strangulated lipoma along with ten feet of gut. He always seemed to bounce back with…
A horse that has spent nearly two decades serving in the British army has sadly passed away this week. Denzil spent 19 years with the army Handsome Irish Draught X TB Denzil spent 19 years serving with the army, he began his career with the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery before moving to the Royal…
Four horses from the recently disbanded Cleveland Mounted Police Unit have moved to a new home at The Horse Trust. It was a sad day for the region as the section’s officers, grooms and volunteers accompanied the horses on the 250 mile drive to their new home. After their final journey together they settled the…
The Horse Trust has recently said a very sad goodbye to three of our beautiful horses, rescue horse Duchess, military horse Cordoba and police horse Oliver. These three horses spent their last days in retirement at The Horse Trust, relaxing and enjoying life without a care in the world. Although it is always sad to…
At the grand old age of 28 years old we have had to say goodbye to a very big character. Selle was an exceptional mare who had served as a charger in the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment for 15 years, after which she spent some years in retirement in Cornwall before arriving with us. Her…
We are very sad to have to announce the loss of our beloved Titan, formally of Thames Valley Police. We are all devastated to have lost such a beloved gentle giant who at 18.3hh was one of our biggest in size but also in personality. Titan was only 18 years old, we had expected many…
We’re thrilled to welcome three magnificent new residents to our Sponsorship scheme – Meg, Max and Atlas! All three gentle giants served the public before retiring to the peaceful surroundings of our Home of Rest for Horses in the Chiltern Hills. Now, they’re ready to start their next chapter – and you can be part…
Time catches up with us all but it did seem that hard working and adorable Scooby might be able to break all the rules. After a whole 19 years full time service with the New Yatt Riding for the Disabled Association he retired to our Home of Rest in 2013. He had been giving riding…
The Horse Trust is very sad to report that ex Household Cavalry, Sefton was quietly put to sleep at the sanctuary on Tuesday 27th March. Sefton, who was retired from the Household Cavalry, Knightsbridge to the charity’s Home of Rest for Horses based in Speen, Buckinghamshire in 2005 will be missed by all the staff…
Staff at The Horse Trust are delighted to have found a new home for Shetland ponies Timmy and Snakey. The ponies were found a home through the Buckinghamshire charity’s rehoming scheme, which focuses on retired, unridden horses from any background. Retired farmers Sheila Murphy and John Murphy who live in Little Brickhill, Milton Keynes, decided…
It is with a heavy heart that we tell you of a very sudden and sad loss. Little Red who was rescued from Spindles Farm in 2008, along with 100 other horses, ponies and donkeys, an horrific place where the living were foraging for food amongst the 30 ponies that had already died, has passed…
Shrek is a 17.3hh, 17 year old gelding who has retired to The Horse Trust after serving with the City of London Police for 8 years. Gorgeous grey Shrek patrolled the City of London streets and his duties ranged from helping local nursery school children safely cross the road to policing riots and football matches. …
Rescue horse Polly, the sole survivor of the three emaciated horses found abandoned in Chalfont St. Peter, Buckinghamshire in February is finally well enough to be introduced to the herd after six months of constant care by the welfare team. With a body condition of 0.5 Polly was near death and the most emaciated horse…
After such a wonderful week of celebrating 130 years of caring for working horses, we have some dreadfully sad news to share. One of our visitor’s favourites and all round big softie, Zulu, died in the night a few days ago. We had hoped he would have many more years with us at only 22…
Just as the team received the sad news about Dunkirk, unfortunately we also had to say goodbye to the utterly gorgeous Mary Tudor, formally of the Royal Mews. Mary retired to us after a very colourful life. This beautiful bay was described as not the easiest of mares to back and train, although she rode…
We lost our beloved Nancy this October at the age of 28. Nancy retired to The Horse Trust in July 2012 after 19 faultless years with the Horse Rangers. This pretty roan mare taught hundreds of children to ride during her time with Horse Rangers and was ridden by special needs riders during her whole…
So, it was finally time for Jack Sparrow to have that pesky deformed eye removed. Sparrow came to us with Inca Dove (pregnant with Phoenix) and Puffin who sadly lost her foal. Of the three, all abandoned on a roadside in Somerset, Sparrow was in the worst state as you can see in his admission…
When he arrived in mid-March along with two pregnant fillies, Inca and Puffin, after being rescued from a roadside in Somerset, this little fellow was in bad shape. Rescued by Highways England and referred to us by Avon & Somerset Police, he was just a baby, 9 months old, with a long fluffy coat concealing…
The Horse Trust is hoping to give three rescued horses from Spindles Farm the chance of a new start in life by training them to ride. The three horses – Walt, Dazzle and Star – were rescued from Spindles Farm in January 2008. All three were only around a year old when they were rescued…
The Horse Trust is celebrating a success for its rehoming scheme after learning that Spindles Farm rescue horse Disney has made “amazing training progress” at the Horse Rangers Association. Spindles Farm rescue horse Disney was rehomed by The Horse Trust in August 2010. The Horse Rangers Association, a charity which helps young people to learn…
From this month we will be starting a Spotlight on…. feature which will highlight a variety of our superstar residents and what they got up to in their working life! This month it is the turn of the stunning Charisma. This incredibly beautiful 16.1hh, 23 year old black mare retired to The Horse Trust in…
Today’s spotlight is dedicated to our lovely Trojan I (Now we have two!). Trojan first came to The Horse Trust in January 2013 from the Essex Police Mounted Section, after it was sadly disbanded in 2012. Trojan served four years with Police Essex undertaking daily policing duties. He even served at premiership football matches and assisted…
Metropolitan Police horses Chiswick and Brigadier are from two different London mounted stables. Chiswick from Hyde Park and Brigadier from Imber Court, where every officer and horse receives extensive training to ensure both horse and rider are well equipped to deal with the rigours of policing in the capital. 17.3hh Chiswick, whose stable name is…
Rest in Peace Olaf … On the 17th June 2015, one year old Olaf passed away at the Royal Veterinary College. He had become poorly with a variety of symptoms and was under the vet when he suffered a massive seizure. He was rushed to hospital and made it through the night but then in…
The Horse Trust works closely with equine professionals to help improve the care and welfare of all horses. This was proven when our recently retired Scottish Police Horse Kilsyth was suffering from an infected tooth that needed surgery to remove it. Based in the beautiful Chiltern countryside; it is here that we provide respite and…
Last week rescue pony Teddy, who recently celebrated his first birthday, attended Bucks County Show with his best friend, 36 year old Shetland pony George. The trip was Teddy’s first outing and his very first time on the Horse Trust lorry. Teddy walked up the ramp as if it was something he had been doing…
One of the highlights of Blenheim for The Horse Trust was the retirement of 16 year old Thames Valley Police Horse Titan in the Main Arena. 18.3hh Shire Cross Titan who weighs in at just under a tonne and is one of the biggest police horses in the country. After 9 years of brave and…
The Weigh To Win (#weightowin) team was thrilled to take its training programme on the road at the kind invitation of GB PRE. The #weightowin scheme aims to help people, particularly within the showing community, understand the importance of maintaining horses at a healthy body weight. This is essential because, in some breeds and types,…
The Horse Trust has given emergency care to an 18 month old, 12 hh, bay colt who can only be described as the worst case of animal neglect the charity has ever seen. On Wednesday 21st March colleagues from theRSPCA removed this painfully thin, dehydrated and pitiful pony from a field in Bedfordshire. Arriving at…
Buckinghamshire charity The Horse Trust is looking for a home for Bess, an affectionate mare who was found abandoned on Boxing Day. Bess, a 12hh black mare, was found abandoned in a snow-covered field last year. The Horse Trust, which is based in Speen, Buckinghamshire, has been looking after Bess the last few months and…
Buckinghamshire charity The Horse Trust is looking for a home for Ben, one of the horses rescued from Spindles Farm. Homes are sought in Buckinghamshire and the surrounding counties, including Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire. Ben, a 13.3hh 5-year-old piebald gelding, was rescued from Spindles Farm in Amersham in 2008. When he was arrived at…
Buckinghamshire charity The Horse Trust is looking for a home for Dancer, a young horse who came to the charity when his owner passed away. Homes are sought in Buckinghamshire and the surrounding counties, including Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire. Dancer, a six-year-old 13.2hh piebald gelding lightweight cob, arrived at The Horse Trust last February….
This week Nicola Housby-Skeggs, Veterinary Director at The Horse Trust, the world’s oldest horse charity, talks about their work and looking after the Trust’s unique herd of horses in Horse and Hound magazine. Our priority is ensuring that our retired equine public servants from the Military, Police, Royal Mews, and charities such as the RDA,…
The Horse Trust has launched a new way for people to support the retired or rescued horses, ponies and donkeys that live at our Home of Rest. With the introduction of a sponsorship scheme, supporters can become a friend of the Trust by sponsoring their favourite Horse Trust resident. Sponsorship starts from just £2.00 a…
The Horse Trust, based in Speen, Buckinghamshire, is devastated after the recently rescued pony, Quest, lost his fight for survival on Easter Sunday. He had arrived shockingly emaciated, crawling with lice and barely able to stand, so bad was his condition that despite around the clock care by The Horse Trust and Quest’s own determination…
Sevvy our hilarious, grubby, utter genius of a former Blues and Royals Trumpet Horse, Sevastopol, had to be put to sleep in December 2015. This is one of the hardest of these posts to write, there’s just too much to say about this amazing character, so many happy memories after 5 years with us, including…
Two Shetland ponies that were rehomed by The Horse Trust last February are enjoying life at their new home in a village south of Milton Keynes. The Horse Trust, which runs an equine rehoming scheme that covers Buckinghamshire and the surrounding counties, found Timmy, a 43-inch bay Shetland, and Snakey, a 41-inch black Shetland, a…
This Wednesday 20th July 2016, The Horse Trust based in Speen, Buckinghamshire will be remembering Hyde Park horses Sefton and Echo, and the tragic victims of the Hyde Park bombing. It is 34 years since this horrific atrocity in Knightsbridge, a car bomb that killed four soldiers and seven horses from the Household Cavalry Mounted…
This Friday 20th July 2012 The Horse Trust based in Speen, Buckinghamshire will be remembering the tragic victims of the Hyde Park bombing. It is 30 years since this horrific atrocity in Knightsbridge, a car bomb that killed four soldiers and seven horses from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment. Cavalry horses Sefton and Yeti and…
The Horse Trust has noticed a dramatic increase in the number of horses being abandoned across Buckinghamshire. In 2010, the Buckinghamshire charity took on seven abandoned horses. In the previous five years (between 2004 and 2009), it did not take on any abandoned horses. Other equine welfare charities are experiencing the same problem. On Friday,…
The Horse Trust has sadly said goodbye to Barkis, who worked with the Greater Manchester Police Mounted Section for 13 years before retiring to the sanctuary in Speen, Buckinghamshire. “I’m totally gutted that he’s gone. I was very attached to him and will miss him terribly,” said Claire Clark, Barkis’ groom at The Horse Trust….
The Horse Trust has sadly said goodbye to Constantine, a drum horse who had worked for the Household Cavalry for 20 years before retiring to The Horse Trust. 25-year-old Constantine, a 17.1hh blue roan gelding, had a high-profile career working for the Household Cavalry, which is based at Hyde Park Barracks in Knightsbridge. He took…
The Horse Trust has sadly said goodbye to Sherwin, who worked with the Merseyside Police Mounted Section for 12 years before retiring to the Buckinghamshire sanctuary in January 2008. 18-year-old Sherwin, a 17hh grey gelding, had been involved in policing high-profile events such as the Liverpool FC victory parade after its Champions League victory in…
The Horse Trust has sadly said goodbye to ex-Household Cavalry drum horse Leonidas and miniature Shetland pony Thuglet. Leo was the last remaining drum horse living at the sanctuary in Speen, Buckinghamshire, after the other drum horses Janus and Constantine died in September and December respectively. “We are very sad at the loss of Leo,…
The recent release of the Steven Spielberg film “War Horse” has prompted some to ask the question, what happens to the horses serving in the British Army in the 21st century when their working days are over? Whilst many are re-homed to private owners a number of these modern day War Horses are given life…
Three long-serving police horses from the Metropolitan Police force have arrived at The Horse Trust. Metropolitan Police horse Vernon, is retiring to the sanctuary, while Verdun and Alderman are on respite. It is hoped that after a period of rest and recuperation, Verdun and Alderman will be able to return to the Metropolitan Police in…
The Horse Trust Welcomes the Longest Serving Military Working Horse, Viscount ‘Fear not old equine soldier your job is done’ After almost 22 years military service Household Cavalry horse Viscount has been welcomed at The Horse Trust’s Home of Rest in Buckinghamshire. Viscount, a 17hh black gelding, Irish Sports horse retired to The Horse Trust…
The Horse Trust’s Rocky has been settling in to his new home with local lady Jo Huggard. Rocky arrived at The Horse Trust with his mother Rose when he was two days old. At the time, nobody could have imagined the beautiful pony that this skinny and wonky foal would eventually grow into. Rocky teamed…
This name may sound familiar to our supporters; the utterly unique Trojan is now back here to stay for his full retirement at The Horse Trust. Trojan first came to The Horse Trust in January 2013 from the Essex Police Mounted Section, after it was sadly disbanded in 2012. Trojan had served four years with…
Today The Horse Trust remembers all the brave men and women who sacrificed so much to serve our country in both World Wars, and the many wars and conflicts since then. While we cannot compare the loss of human life with the loss of our equine allies, we do acknowledge the crucial role that the…
The Horse Trust is delighted to welcome three remarkable horses – Jezz, Vella and Bill – into their forever home in the peaceful Chiltern Hills, where they will enjoy a well-deserved retirement after years of extraordinary service in equine-assisted therapy. Each of these special horses has spent their working lives transforming the lives of people…
Uncle George is currently our oldest, and some think, our cutest resident. Shetland pony George stands at only 39 inches and retired from Battersea Children’s Zoo back in 2004. Uncle George 40 years young and long term resident here at The Horse Trust sets matters straight. I wanted to make sure everyone understands. I need…
Today is The King’s Birthday Parade (Trooping the Colour), a significant annual event in the British ceremonial calendar, marking the official birthday of the British Sovereign. Horses play a crucial role in this day, many of whom will go on to retire at our Home of Rest based in the Chilterns. Trooping the Colour is…
The Horse Trust had to say goodbye to our beloved donkey Troy in November 2015. After something in the region of 50 years of living life to the full, our treasured donkey Troy passed away. She was an institution here and none of us can quite believe she’s finally gone. We thought we might lose…
As The Horse Trust welcomes a new resident, Qwerty, we say fond farewell to Poppy, who is returning to training before she will begin helping to police the busy streets of our capital. The Horse Trust works very closely with Mounted Police sections across the country and is the only UK charity that specialises in…
Uncle George is currently our oldest, and some think, our cutest resident. Shetland pony George stands at only 39 inches and retired from Battersea Children’s Zoo back in 2004 along with children’s pony Babycham and Briar the donkey. Uncle George is no lover of the winter months and is very fond of his stable. After…
One of the emaciated mares recently taken in by The Horse Trust continues to make steady progress. Polly has now moved from The Horse Trust’s isolation unit to the special care unit on the main yard as she has shown no signs of disease during a two week observation period and has been cleared of…
Very sad news. Our wonderful old man Vernon has said his last goodnight. At 28 years old he had been battling with a very long running foot problem and in the end, it was clear he would not win the fight and so we made the decision to say farewell. Vernon was a huge character,…
In August Vesta, a young Shetland pony arrived. She had been found in a Buckinghamshire field by Reading-based rescue charity Saving Abandoned Fly-grazing Equines (SAFE). She was suffering from ringworm and an advanced case of strangles, one of the most infectious equine diseases. She was transported to the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) where she remained…
The Horse Trust is delighted to announce the successful return of Vida to the Household Cavalry. Images of the injured grey cavalry horse galloping through London captured hearts worldwide. After five months of respite, Vida has made remarkable progress and is now back with The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment (HCMR). Vida’s journey began in April…
Finalists We’re all very excited at The Horse Trust after we have been chosen as a finalist for this years Equestrian Social Media Awards! Teddy is especially thrilled as his blog has earned him a place as a finalist in the ‘Best Use of Social Media by a Talking Animal’ category. Most of you will…
At the end of February 2016 we said goodbye to a Horse Trust legend, Snodgrass, formerly of Greater Manchester Police. At The Horse Trust, we have the honour of specialising in giving a dignified retirement to our country’s equine civil servants and to give them the best possible life in their twilight years after a…
It was a sad day indeed when we had to say a final goodnight to our gorgeous Gladys the donkey. Gladys came to us ten years ago having been rescued from the horrors of Spindles Farm in Amersham. She was so weak she had to be lifted by the team for the first ten days…
Rest in peace, Millie We are incredibly saddened to announce that another of our beloved family members has spread their wings – we had to say our final farewells to the beautiful Millie at the grand age of 26. We have had the absolute pleasure of having Millie with us for six years after she…
Welcome Bob and Jutland. First up, everyone meet Bob! This handsome chap is retiring from English Heritage after 7 years of service. English Heritage is a charity that manages over 400 historic monuments, buildings and places. Bob was based at Audley End House and Gardens, a Victorian country home in Essex. Whilst at English Heritage,…
We’re thrilled to introduce our new residents: Bowker, Kelbrook and Scooby – three incredible horses who’ve dedicated their lives to serving the public and are now beginning a new chapter in the beautiful Chiltern Hills.
We are delighted to welcome Inverness, a much-loved 20-year-old Clydesdale from Police Scotland’s Mounted Unit, into retirement at The Horse Trust. Standing at an impressive 17hh, Inverness is one of the most iconic figures in mounted policing from the last decade – renowned for his size, strength, and gentle nature. Over his remarkable 12-year career,…
We’re overjoyed to welcome three new arrivals into our herd at the Home of Rest for Horses in the Chilterns, Buckinghamshire.
Standing at just 16hh, 17 year old, ex-army bay gelding Hagrid is the latest addition to the herd at The Horse Trust. Hagrid is certainly no “Half-Giant” like the character in the Harry Potter books as he is remarkably small for an army horse. Hagrid, whose stable name is Oscar, had booked himself a retirement…
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Jeanette Allen
Chief Executive Officer
Jeanette is a chartered director who began her career in the commercial sector, setting up and running her own successful recruitment business. After the sale of the business she moved to the charity sector as a fundraiser for the NSPCC and later Bart’s Hospital before becoming the CEO of the MedicAlert Foundation.
Jeanette became the CEO of The Horse Trust in 2010 where she has undertaken a strategic review of the Trust’s charitable aims and objectives and also implemented a major re-development project at the charity’s base, the Home of Rest for Horses, in Buckinghamshire.
Carolyn Madgwick
Director of Legislation & Enforcement
Carolyn joined The Horse Trust in 2016 having spent 27 years as a Senior Trading Standards Officer leading a team of officers specialising in the enforcement of animal health and welfare legislation. At The Horse Trust, Carolyn maintains her level of expertise in legislation, develops training materials and provides training and advice on legislation for many audiences including the Emergency Services, Local Authorities, Vets and other equine charities. She is the current Chair of the National Equine Welfare Council (NEWC), the British Horse Council representative on the RCVS Riding Establishments Sub-Committee and represents the Trust on many other committees and in meetings with Government Officials.
Charlotte Launder
Director of Training
Charlotte has more than 20 years’ experience working with horses and has been at The Horse Trust since 2012. Prior to this Charlotte worked as a lecturer at an agricultural college during her PGCE teaching students in Further and Higher Education. As the Director of Training, she coordinates internal and external training courses. This includes training the Equine Care Team internally and externally, training Emergency Responders, Welfare Professionals, Farriers, and other professionals. Charlotte also manages the retraining of horses at The Horse Trust using behaviour modification techniques and is working towards becoming a Clinical Animal Behaviourist to support this.
Claire Lett
Director of Finance & Administration
Claire has been a qualified accountant for over 20 years. Having joined The Horse Trust in 2001, Claire is the Director of Finance and Administration where she deals with everything financial up to and including full statutory accounts. As part of the senior management team she has also been involved in all aspects of modernising the charity and setting and achieving its strategic goals. Claire was a dedicated rider and horse owner for many years and feels passionately about all animals.
Jan Rogers
Director of Research and Policy
Jan is a psychology graduate who before joining The Horse Trust spent 15 years with British Equestrian, the UK governing body for horse sports, running programmes to identify future talent in young performance horses. Jan came to The Horse Trust in 2017 to look after research grants and policy for the horse world. This two-part role involves sharing the knowledge learned from funded projects as well as understanding regulations and the political environment in the horse world, so that the research we fund is relevant and directly applicable to the wellbeing of horses.
David Andrews
Estate Manager
David is one of the longest standing members of The Horse Trust team. After working as a chef for a period of time, he joined The Horse Trust in 1998 as an estate worker. David is now the Estate Manager, and takes care of all maintenance of our 280 acre estate including ensuring that the fields in which our horses, ponies and donkeys live are well maintained, that they are secure and provides our residents with the best possible environment.
Gemma Pearson
Director of Equine Behaviour
Gemma combines her time between research and outreach as Director of Equine Behaviour at The Horse Trust and running a referral clinic for clinical equine behaviour cases where she is based at the University of Edinburgh. She is also an accredited racecourse veterinary surgeon and enjoys working at Musselburgh racecourse.
After working in ambulatory practice Gemma moved to the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies where she completed a rotating residency programme in the equine hospital, completing her Cert AVP (EM), alongside an MScR investigating horse veterinarian interactions.
Subsequently she completed her CCAB (certified clinical animal behaviourist) and her PhD thesis ‘Stress in equids undergoing veterinary care and the development of interventions that positively influence the horses’ experience’. As well as continuing with her own research she supervises several students at PhD, MSc and undergraduate level.
Gemma is frequently invited to lecture internationally, as a recognised expert in this field and an excellent communicator. One of the most successful projects was filming a series of short YouTube videos with the British Equine Veterinary Association aiming to reduce injury rates when dealing with difficult horses under the ‘Don’t break your vet’ campaign.
As the Veterinary Liaison Officer for the International Society for Equitation Science, Gemma is passionate about improving interactions between horses and people, specifically regarding the application of learning theory. In her spare time she has competed up to advanced level endurance on a homebred horse as well as enjoying competing in affiliated dressage and eventing. Currently she is retraining a Thoroughbred recently retired from racing.
Gemma is a qualified veterinary surgeon with over 15 years’ experience with behaviour cases. Gemma is now a qualified Equine Clinical Animal Behaviourist and is the Veterinary Liaison Officer for the International Society for Equitation Science, where she has been involved with several working parties to improve the welfare of horses around the world. Currently, Gemma is undertaking a PhD investigating the stress response of horses undergoing veterinary treatment, with the plan to develop low stress handling techniques.
Jim green
Director of Operations for BARTA
Jim co-founded the British Animal Rescue and Trauma Association (BARTA) in 2012 and together with Professor Josh Slater, promoted the growing initiative alongside their regular careers. BARTA was established with a clear vision to support first responders in the resolution of emergency situations involving animals, with informed, safe and welfare driven plans. In 2019, BARTA became a subsidiary of The Horse Trust and this partnership enabled Jim to continue the journey as full time Director of BARTA. Jim continues to respond operationally to animal incidents through his on-call role as an Animal Rescue Specialist with Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Liane Preshaw
Quality of Life and Research Director
In her role, Liane supports the team by researching new developments in how we care for, manage and train horses, so that we can continue to update and improve our practices, and therefore improve the welfare of the horses in our care. Liane also develops training resources for trainee clinical animal behaviourists and assists the team in dealing with behaviour cases. Liane has a Post-Graduate Diploma in Clinical Animal Behaviour, an MPhil in assessing horse welfare, and an MSc and BSc in Equine Science. She is an ABTC registered Accredited Animal Behaviourist and has achieved pre-certification as a Clinical Animal Behaviourist, which means she has met the knowledge criteria for this role. Liane continues to develop her clinical skills and is working towards becoming an ABTC registered Clinical Animal Behaviourist. She is also a BHS Accredited Professional Coach.
Nicola Housby-Skeggs
Veterinary Director
Nicky graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in 2007 and joined The Royal Army Veterinary Corps. She served for 10 years: firstly, with Military Working Dogs preparing them and their handlers for deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan. Later she served as the veterinary officer for The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery and The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment with some of The Horse Trust’s most loved residents including the late Falstaff and Captain Greatgun. She now works as the Veterinary Director for The Horse Trust providing both the onsite veterinary provision, internal and external training and providing part of the RVC final year rotations.
Russell Pickin
Director of Equine Care
Before joining The Horse Trust, Russell completed thirty-four years’ service with the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS). He specialised in public order work as an instructor at the Public Order Training Centre and then the Mounted Branch. As a Mounted Branch Inspector, Russell commanded mounted units on countless public order, large incidents and ceremonial events across London and finished his career riding on and commanding the mounted units at Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee. He was the Chairman for the National Mounted Training Advisory Group and also the MPS’s Chief Equitation Officer responsible for buying and training police horses and the training of the MPS’s mounted officers. During this role he developed a good working partnership with The Horse Trust where he is now the Director of Equine Care and heads a team of grooms and volunteers that look after our 130 horses.
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during business hours.
Email: info@horsetrust.org.uk
Telephone: 01494 488464
Please note: Viewings are strictly by prior arrangement only.
Jessica Tallman
Director of Fundraising & Communications
Jessica has been at the heart of The Horse Trust’s fundraising and communications since 2020, working tirelessly to secure the vital support that keeps our sanctuary running. From planning major events and writing grant proposals to championing our work in the media, no two days are ever the same!
Growing up in Kentucky, Jessica was surrounded by animals and always had a passion for their wellbeing. Now, she works shoulder to shoulder with our team of experts, helping give back to the horses who have given so much to us.
With six years in the charity fundraising sector, including roles at Coeliac UK, and previous experience in the corporate sector, Jessica brings a wealth of knowledge in development and growth. She also holds Bachelor and Master’s degrees in Arts, History, and Business from the University of Colorado Boulder and the University of Aberdeen.
Jessica is a driving force behind our fundraising success, ensuring we can continue providing the best possible care to every horse, pony, and donkey at our Home of Rest for Horses and beyond.
Projects up to £20k.
Initiate novel research that will impact on equine wellbeing by generating pilot data, validating methodologies or PhD Student Studentship application.
For projects designed to answer specific questions that will have a direct or immediate impact on horse wellbeing.
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