News stories
Saxon's long road home
Welcome Home! That was the message after Redwings Horse Sanctuary returned Saxon, a magnificent Suffolk Punch, to his birth place – and his mum – at Somerleyton Estate in Suffolk after a 15-year absence.
Stunning Saxon had originally left Somerleyton after being sold as a two-year-old. However, he was recently signed over to the RSPCA after a struggling stud farm admitted they could no longer cope with the demands of 18hh Saxon and his well-being was suffering as a result.
Saxon’s blood records were traced back to Somerleyton and the RSPCA contacted the Suffolk stately home to see if they could add another Suffolk Punch to their Fritton stables – and they were thrilled to be able to welcome Saxon back home.
The RSPCA then contacted Redwings to reunite the two as we regularly deal with the transit of large horses. Redwings Welfare Officer Julie Harding and vet Roxane Kirton set off in a Redwings horsebox at 3am for a 12-hour round trip to bring him back to Suffolk.
Handsome Saxon arrives back at his childhood home...
Julie said: “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.”
"Being such a large horse, we always take one of our 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”
Somerleyton Estate Manager Edward Knowles said that the Estate had failed in efforts to acquire Saxon two years ago – and he was delighted to finally welcome him 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 new surroundings.”
“Saxon will remain at our Fritton stables while he settles in. He will then be reunited with his mother at Somerleyton in the Spring.”
