Valentine 'unrecognisable' a year after rescue

A pony who was rescued from neglect a year ago is "now unrecognisable", an animal welfare charity says.

Valentine, named after the day she was found, was seen "starving" in a makeshift paddock, World Horse Welfare said.

The charity said it tracked down her owner and gave advice on how to improve her care, but locals soon flagged she had no food or water again. She was taken to safety before being moved to Glenda Spooner Farm in Somerton, Somerset.

A year on, the charity said the six-year-old mare was "thriving". "She's doing so well – her personality is really shining through now", said groom Lily.

The charity's field officer Rebecca Carter said she could not believe her eyes when she first saw Valentine.

"She was underweight underneath her thick winter coat, with no food or water and a badly-fitting rug barely hanging on," she said.

But Valentine is now ready to be rehomed, the charity said.

"We often see their character come out as they get stronger and Valentine has really blossomed since arriving in such a poor state.

"It's lovely to see her cantering across the field for her breakfast now," Lily added.

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