‘Beacon of hope’ as first foal of 2024 born at World Horse Welfare centre

World Horse Welfare foal Poppy — (Image credit: World Horse Welfare)

World Horse Welfare’s Somerset rescue and rehoming centre has welcomed its first foal of the year, born to a rescued mare who was taken in as part of a large welfare case.

Poppy, a chestnut filly, has been born without complications at the charity’s Glenda Spooner Farm. Her dam, Parsley, arrived at the centre in October with lice, worms, and a profound fear of humans, but the charity said she has demonstrated “remarkable resilience and embraced her role as a mother”.

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Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.

‘Beacon of hope’ as first foal of the year born at rescue centre

Assistant farm manager Sara Jerman said: “Watching any foal is heartwarming, and Poppy is already showing her playful spirit.

“She has delighted in running around in the mud — a current challenge for us here and for many horse owners after this wet winter — and enjoying her rests after the tiring activities of being a young foal.”

The charity rescues around 300 horses each year and its long-running “do you need to breed?” campaign highlights the possible consequences of excessive breeding and encourages responsible ownership.

A spokesman for the charity said Poppy’s arrival is “a beacon of hope and symbolises a promising future for horses that have faced neglect or abuse” and “just one example of World Horse Welfare’s commitment to providing a better future for all horses”.

She added: “By choosing to rehome rather than breed, horse lovers can help ensure that every horse has the chance of a safe and loving home.”

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