In a heart-wrenching tale of neglect, a group of volunteers has taken matters into their own hands to rescue two mares and a mule, from West Undercliff. The animals have been kept in dire conditions in a muddy field with no shelter, fresh water, or regular food.
For months, concerned members of the Rye community have been providing daily food and attempting to make the derelict stables habitable to offer some respite during the harsh winter months. The animals were on land at Cadborough Marsh, West Undercliff.
Thanks to an officer at Rother District Council and local helpers, early on Tuesday morning, March 19 horse bailiffs siezed the ponies due to the owner’s failure to meet rent payments on the land. This was a far better outcome for the ponies than letting them suffer further where they were. These animals were being held in safe custody until the owner settles the requested fees and various recognised charities are aware and looking to find them homes. The bailiffs are on record that no animal will be destroyed except on a vet’s advice when there is no alternative.
On Wednesday, March 27 Rye News received official confirmation that “a great forever home has been found for all three of them and they are on their way today. I hope that puts everyone’s minds at ease and you can all be proud of your parts that you played on getting them to a point of safety.”
The tireless efforts of the volunteers serve as a reminder of the power of compassion and community action in the face of adversity.
Image Credits: Rye News library .