Alice, Fred and Joel

Our first glimpse of the lovely Alice was a distressing one. We watched as she was driven at breakneck speed around a sale field by her Traveller owners, up for auction to the highest bidder. On that warm summer’s day, she was drenched in sweat, steam rising from beneath her harness, yet she kept going, displaying a willing spirit despite the harsh conditions.

Later, we saw her tethered to the side of an old trailer. Her coat, once slick with sweat, had dried and caked, her eyes appeared swollen, and she looked utterly exhausted. Though she wasn’t the most striking horse available, her honesty shone through. A deal was struck, and Alice came home with us.

She proved to be not only honest but also a lover of work, a keen jumper, and occasionally cheeky—a true joy to own. Fred, on the other hand, was bred from top-class, expensive eventing stock, and great things were expected of him. He grew into a handsome, imposing figure and was trained for eventing, successfully tackling the formidable Badminton fences.

While he never won Badminton, he was consistently well-placed and renowned for his bravery. As he aged, his joints began to suffer from the rigours of his career, leading to his retirement. With his gentle and calm temperament, he naturally took on the role of nanny to some valuable foals, a job that seemed to suit him perfectly.

When his owner downsized and could no longer accommodate Fred and his companion Mary, a new home had to be found or he faced the grim prospect of being put down. Fortunately, we had a space available just for Fred, and he deserved to spend his remaining years in peace and tranquillity.

Joel, meanwhile, had been cherished as a beloved pet until his owner could no longer care for him due to changed circumstances. He had received everything he could have wished for and was well looked after. His owner was deeply saddened to part with him and wanted to find a safe, forever home. Now, despite their diverse backgrounds, Joel, Fred, and Alice have become the best of friends.