Taking the reins

WONDERFUL workhorse . . . Big Lad with Ethel Worthington

A MUCH-LOVED heavyweight horse brought a special touch of luck to a woodland demonstration day.

Despite squally weather turning the ground to mud, 15-year-old Clydesdale “Big Lad” skated over problems with his extra-arge horseshoes.

Families, volunteers and workers turned out to watch the friendly giant working with the RSPB, pulling heavy logs at Dovestone. He had travelled from his home in Sheffield with estates manager Brett Nuttall and expert horsewoman Ethel Worthington.

For four hours the horse carted logs from a plantation to Ashway Gap picnic area, where they will be used for path edging, benches and to create habitats for insects and wildlife.

Miriam Biran, RSPB visitor experience manager, said: “Big Lad has very large feet so has special shoes which help him to walk on soft ground. It was an awe-inspiring sight to see a beautiful working horse carrying out woodland management in the traditional way.

“He’s such a friendly horse and used to people, so children had the chance to meet him close-up when he was having a rest.”