Redwings rescued pony becomes a TV star

Escape to the Farm had a very special star in Gilbert, a rescued pony from Redwings

Gilbert, a rescued six-year-old cob, has found a loving new home at Kate Humble’s farm. He arrived as star of the show on one the latest episode of Escape to the Farm, which aired on Channel 5. The series follows Kate’s busy life on her Monmouthshire farm.

Gilbert was introduced as a stablemate for Rags, who’d recently lost his equine pal. Sarah, Rags’ owner, contacted Redwings Horse Sanctuary, who quickly set about finding the perfect match for Rags, and it wasn’t long before Gilbert was chosen as his new friend. Gilbert’s settling in well since he arrived in April and is a calm, friendly horse – the ideal friend for Rags.

Kate said: “Finding the perfect companion for a horse who has lost his stablemate of many years wasn’t something I expected to be easy. But the knowledge and experience of the staff at Redwings helped us find Gilbert. He and our Rags struck up an instant rapport and Gilbert has become well and truly part of the farm family. We’re so grateful for the careful consideration that Redwings gave to allow us to rehome this lovely horse and, in so doing, support the work of this excellent charity.”

Rachel Angell, Redwings’ Head of Norfolk Equine Operations and Rehoming, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled that Gilbert is enjoying his new home – and has become a television star to boot! Thank you to Kate and Sarah for highlighting the sheer joy of rehoming a rescued horse and the importance of companion ponies.

“Companions not only provide invaluable friendship for a horse, but they can also act as calming travel buddies or simply be wonderful pets in their own right. When you rehome from a registered charity like Redwings, you’re not only giving a second start in life to a rescued horse, but you’re also providing space at the Sanctuary for another horse in need to be brought to safety.

“We wish Gilbert, Rags, Sarah and Kate many happy years together!”

For more information, visit redwings.org.uk or channel5.com