Horse Trader

A Suffolk horse has been returned to the place where he was born, thanks to help from horse charity Redwings and the RSPCA.

Saxon, a 17-year-old 18hh gelding, was handed over to the RSPCA by a stud farm owner that was no longer able to cope with looking after him.

Saxon’s breeding was traced back to Somerleyton Estate, Lowestoft, Suffolk by the RSPCA, who contacted the stud. He was returned to his original home after 15 years away and will be reunited with his mother in the spring.

Redwings Horse Sanctuary, which is currently home to over 1,200 horses, donkeys and ponies, was happy to help transport Saxon to his original home. Redwings welfare officer, Julie Harding and vet Roxane Kirton, set off on the 12-hour round trip on the 8th December to take Saxon back to Suffolk.

“We have vast experience in moving large equines over long distances. Thanks to our supporters, we have the capacity to provide dedicated transport when required and are prepared for any eventuality,” said Julie. “Being such a large horse, we always take one of out vets along in case of any potential problems. These problems are very rare however and, despite being a long journey, Saxon took it all in his stride.”

Speaking of Saxon’s return, Somerleyton Estate manager Edward Knowles said that he was “delighted” to have the horse back. “He’s a big lad. Magnificent. Horses have fantastic memories and, once he was off the Redwings’ transport, he appeared relaxed and familiar with his surroundings,” he said. Mr Knowles said that Saxon will be left to settle in before he is reunited with his mother.

“Saxon will remain at our Fritton stables while he settles in and will be reunited with his mother at Somerleyton in the spring,“ he said.