Heartbreak as mule rescued from the streets as a foal put down aged 30

Mule Ebony, pictured at Bransby Horses, was rescued as a foal in 1992 — (Image credit: Bransby Horses)

A mule taken in by Bransby Horses after being found roaming the streets as a foal has been put down aged 30, following a “full and happy life”.

Ebony was rescued by the Lincolnshire charity from the streets of Gainsborough in 1992. Although it was not clear if she had escaped from a field or been abandoned, when no one claimed her she went on to receive “all the love and care she needed” from Bransby staff.

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Since joining H&H in 2018, Becky has covered a broad range of equestrian news including welfare matters, veterinary studies, FEI Tribunal hearings and road safety campaigns. She has also interviewed top riders including Scott Brash, John Whitaker and Ian Stark, to name just a few. Becky’s reporting has taken her to Canada for Spruce Meadows and France for Pau five-star, as well as the Royal Highland and Blair Castle International Horse Trials closer to home. She was also a key part of the remote reporting team for the Tokyo Olympics and the Europeans.

‘Heartbreak’ as mule rescued from the streets as a foal is put down aged 30

“For many years Ebony was a popular Sponsorship Star but retired in 2019 to enjoy her twilight years out of the limelight. Since she retired she has been very happy playing and relaxing in her paddock with her little herd.”

“Her loss will be felt by so many who had the pleasure of meeting her but none more so than the yard teams who have looked after her daily needs,” said the spokesman.

“As one of the greatest and most loved characters at the charity, she will be deeply missed. She lived a full and happy life, made possible only by the kind donations of those who support Bransby’s important equine welfare work.”

Bransby PR officer Maria Thompson added everyone at the charity is “heartbroken”.

“It’s so tough when we lose one, especially when they are as special as Ebony.”

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