Meet the members of our ever expanding family.

Paco

  • Male (Gelding), 16’2, aged 19.

    Emerging from darkness into light: Meet Paco, a majestic 16.2 hand gelding of 19 years, whose soulful eyes tell a tale of resilience and triumph. Rescued from a chilling fate on a Spanish meat truck, Paco endured 16 years of solitary confinement – shackled, confined in a tiny electric-fenced stable, and granted only fleeting movement for water and rides. Denied the freedom to be a horse, his spirit remained unbroken.

    Reborn under English skies: Arriving in the UK, Paco was a mere shadow of his true self. Emaciated, fearful of human touch, and unfamiliar with the simple joy of grazing, he embarked on a remarkable journey of healing. With boundless compassion and patient care, he rediscovered trust and embraced the life that was denied him for so long.

    Leader of the Herd, Friend of All: Today, Paco stands tall, the undisputed leader of his herd. His days are filled with the sun-dappled pleasures of grazing alongside his companions, relishing the freedom he had only dreamt of. A gentle giant with a mischievous glint in his eye, he thrives on the simple love of a neck scratch or a tail rub.

    Paco's story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of horses and the transformative power of human kindness. Come meet him and witness the beauty of a soul set free.

Tiger (RIP)

  • Male (Gelding), 16’3, aged 26.

    Shrouded in the mists of time, Tiger's past whispers tales of hardship. Weaned too early, his life echoed with the pangs of hunger and the yearning for belonging. Dental records tell a grim story of years marked by starvation, a cruel mismatch for his mighty frame.

    But Tiger's indomitable spirit refused to be silenced. Reaching the haven of the Katy Hancock Foundation, his panicked roars slowly softened into the gentle rumble of contentment. Here, the warmth of human connection replaced the chill of neglect. He relishes the touch of a caring hand, the whispers of soothing words, and the pampering that nourishes his soul.

    Despite his 25 years, Tiger's fire burns brightest. He bounds across the fields, a playful spirit defying the calendar. Though shadows of his past may linger, they cannot dim the joyous light that now shines in his eyes.

    Sadly, this light was nearly extinguished. Deemed "too much" by a world that failed to see his depth, Tiger faced the ultimate cruelty - a planned euthanasia in 2022. But luck, guided by unwavering compassion, found its way to him. The Katy Hancock Foundation held out their hands, embracing a spirit that deserved not oblivion, but redemption.

Goliath

  • Meet Goliath, a magnificent gelding whose 9.3 hands height might intimidate at first glance. But behind this impressive stature lies a heart slowly blooming with trust.

    His past is shrouded in mystery, the only whispers coming from his arrival at the RSPCA in 2023 and subsequent transfer to the Blue Cross a few months later. Back then, fear painted his every movement. No human dared come near, his skittishness a wall too high to climb.

    But love and patience has proved mightier than Goliath's apprehension. With gentle hands and kind voices, we have chipped away at his defences. Each day has brought a small victory: a tentative nuzzle, a relaxed sigh, a hoof lifted for a brush.

    Today, Goliath is a changed horse. He still prefers familiar faces, but his circle of trust has widened. He allows himself to be caught, even approaches for a treat (though mind your fingers – he hasn't quite mastered gentle nibbles yet!). The dream of leading him on a rein or grooming his glossy coat no longer feels distant. It's a future patiently unfolding, paved with love, and understanding.

    Who knows what tomorrow holds for Goliath? Perhaps he'll become a therapy horse, offering comfort to others with his quiet strength. Or he'll simply bask in the joy of human companionship, his once fearful whinnies replaced by contented snorts.

Daisy

  • Stood at 15.3 hands, Daisy is a stunning mare with a kind eye and a gentle soul. She wasn't always this happy and healthy, though. Life dealt her a tough hand when her owner became terminally ill, and she was forced to move to a new yard. There, she was neglected and mistreated, left "ragged" under full livery, and not given the love and attention she deserved. Her spirit was broken, and her physical health suffered as well. She arrived at our rescue with stiff legs, bad feet, and a shell built around her heart.

    But Daisy is a fighter. With time, patience, and plenty of love, she began to heal. She slowly came out of her shell, revealing the sweet, playful mare beneath. We helped her regain her strength, treating her sore legs and feet and giving her a nutritious diet. And most importantly, we showered her with the love and attention she craved.

    Today, Daisy is a changed horse. She's happy and settled, her eyes sparkling with newfound joy. She loves to go out for long hacks on sunny days, exploring the countryside with the wind in her mane. And she absolutely adores treats! Sure, she can be a little feisty sometimes when it comes to being tacked up, but that's just her sassy way of showing she's in charge. But when she's brushed and pampered, she melts into a puddle of purrs.

    We're so grateful to have her in our lives, and we know she'll continue to bring joy to everyone who meets her.

VANNER

  • Towering with the playful grace of a young oak, Vanner, our gypsy cob, embodies the spirit of freedom ingrained in her ancient breed. Don't let her youth fool you; within her gentle eyes sparks a cunning mind as sharp as her coat is sun-kissed.

    It’s hard to imagine, looking at her now, the darkness she emerged from – the cobbled streets of Harlow, where neglect twisted her hooves and tangled thorns into her mane. A past etched in the flinch of her head from a touch it craved but never knew. But in our embrace, love bloomed like wildflowers in spring.

    Those splayed feet, once mimicking lost ducklings, now dance with the rhythm of the wind. The parasites succumbed to care, the wounds healed, leaving only a whisper of their scars. Vanner, reborn, stands a testament to resilience – a sleek, fit filly!

    Teaching her isn't about taming; it's about sharing dreams whispered on the breeze. Her inquisitive nature, like a foal exploring the world, hungers for adventure. In the playful nip of her teeth and the flick of her tail, we see not just potential, but a promise – a promise etched in hoofprints on the earth, of endless gallops towards a horizon painted with freedom and trust.

    Vanner is more than just a horse; she's a beacon of hope, a testament to the transformative power of love, and a spirit galloping towards a future boundless with possibilities.

Jamie & Olivia

  • All the way from Aberdeenshire, these two gorgeous goats have settled right in at Grafham Paddocks — perhaps a little too well! With their big floppy ears and even bigger personalities, Jamie and Olivia have decided they’re not just part of the herd… they’re part of the household.

    If you leave the door open for more than three seconds, you’ll find them halfway into the kitchen, clearly convinced the sofa is their new hay bale. When they’re not plotting their next indoor adventure, they can be found happily munching on thorn bushes (apparently a delicacy in goat fine dining).

    Smart, sneaky, and endlessly entertaining — Jamie and Olivia are living proof that goats might just be undercover comedians with hooves.

Ramsey & Gordon

  • Ramsey: Meet the self-proclaimed farm paparazzo, Ramsey! His inquisitive eyes miss nothing, always glued to visitor activities. This social butterfly came to Grafham Paddocks with his inseparable companion, Gordon, under unfortunate circumstances. When their beloved owner, an older gentleman, passed away from cancer, finding a new home proved challenging. Many overlooked them due to their "lack of purpose," but here at Grafham Paddocks, purpose isn't a prerequisite for love. We believe in second chances, and that's exactly what Ramsey and Gordon received: a forever home!

    Gordon: Don't let his shyness fool you; Gordon, the quieter of the two, is equally full of love. You'll know he's around when you hear his short, friendly snort – his way of saying hello. He may not be as outgoing as Ramsey, but his gentle nature melts away with a bit of patience. Interestingly, both goats have seen their share of life's twists and turns. While Ramsey was found abandoned on a roundabout, Gordon's story is unique. Initially a meat goat, he was rescued and paired with Ramsey for companionship, proving that friendship knows no bounds!

    A Word on Playful Personalities: Ramsey's enthusiasm can be overwhelming for younger children, so he takes a rest during visits with little ones. However, older children (over 10) can request a special meet-and-greet with the boys. Be warned, though: Ramsey loves to play, and you might find yourself the newest addition to his goat games!

Crumb

  • Crumb is a charming little mare with a surprising personality. Standing at just 10.1 hands tall, this 16-year-old beauty prefers the company of children over adults. Life hasn't always been easy for Crumb. She was originally surrendered to the Blue Cross when her family could no longer care for her. Just as she found a new home, fate intervened. On the day of her adoption, Crumb slipped and injured her leg. The stress of recovery triggered a skin condition, and sadly, the family who'd chosen her backed out.

    Luckily, one person's loss is another's gain! We heard about Crumb's struggle to find a home and knew we had to welcome her into our loving embrace. Despite her small size, Crumb holds her own in the herd with a dominant spirit. But her true colours shine when she's around children. Leading her on walks and showering her with treats are her favourite things.

    If you're looking for a loyal equine companion who thrives on love and interaction, Crumb might just be your perfect match. Remember, size doesn't matter when it comes to big hearts, and this little mare has plenty to offer.

Chickera

Nugget

kiev

  • These brave hens aren't your average backyard birds. Nugget, Chickera, and Kiev are former "free-range" layers who escaped a tough culling, finding sanctuary at Grafham Paddocks. Their resilience shines through in their bright eyes and curious pecks – sometimes aimed at your feet, a sign of their friendly playfulness!

    Beyond their adventurous spirit lies a deep love for tasty food. Grapes, melon, and lettuce are their absolute favourites, guaranteed to bring happy clucks and enthusiastic gobbles. When the sun climbs high and the shadows stretch long, these daring girls explore their spacious enclosure, foraging and soaking up the sunshine. But beware, even foxes aren't immune to their charm! During daylight hours, when Reynard sleeps in, Nugget, Chickera, and Kiev might just strut over for a picnic snack, joining you in the pony paddock with their delightful company.

    These plucky survivors are a heart-warming reminder of the strength and joy found in second chances. Their presence adds a dash of feathered fun to your days, proving that even the smallest creatures can fill your life with laughter and love.

ATHOS

  • Male (Gelding), 16’3, aged 9. We're delighted to welcome Athos, a Hanoverian X Warmblood gelding, to Grafham Paddocks! Arriving in February 2025, he quickly settled into our herd, charming both horses and humans. This once-nervous horse now thrives, showing a remarkably calm and kind nature. Within three days, he was enjoying sessions with children, loving every fuss and scratch. We're so lucky to have Athos join our rescue and we can’t wait to see him go from strength to strength as he puts weight back on!

Maisie

  • Maisie is a beautiful 13.1hh Arabian mare, aged 17, with a gentle soul and a story that has already touched our hearts.

    She comes from a proud line of Arabians and has been part of the Arabian Horse Association. Maisie has spent her life as a brood mare, giving so much over the years.

    Sadly, her owner recently passed away, and she found herself needing a new place to call home.

    Now… she’s found it.

    Maisie will spend the rest of her days here with us, surrounded by care, kindness, and purpose. In time, she’ll become part of the work we do—helping others through quiet moments, gentle connections, and simply being her calm, reassuring self.

    Sometimes, the ones who have given the most deserve the softest landings.

    Welcome home, Maisie 🤍

Penelope, Skye & Rosie

  • Meet Penelope, Rosie and Skye 🐐

    We are delighted to welcome three new members to the Katy Hancock Foundation family: Penelope, Rosie and Skye.

    Penelope is the auntie to Rosie and Skye, who have joined us as adorable three-month-old pygmy goats. Their arrival brings our goat herd to seven goats, and we can't wait to see them settling in alongside our much larger Anglo-Nubian goats, as well as Gordon and Ramsey.

    Although they may be small in size, these three certainly make up for it in personality. Curious, cheeky, affectionate, and full of energy, they have already been keeping us entertained with their playful antics and fearless approach to exploring their new home.

    As part of our therapeutic environment, Penelope, Rosie and Skye will help bring smiles, laughter and comfort to the children, families and visitors who spend time with us. Their gentle nature and playful characters make them a wonderful addition to the Foundation, and we know they will quickly become firm favourites with everyone who visits.

    We look forward to sharing their adventures as they grow and become an important part of the Katy Hancock Foundation family. ❤️🐐🐐🐐