Tributes have been paid to one of Bransby Horses’ oldest residents who sadly passed away this month. Former Adoption Star Ebony was “one of the greatest and most loved characters” at the charity, and was known affectionately as ‘Ebony mule’.
Ebony had been with Bransby for most of her life after she was found roaming the streets of Gainsborough in 1992. She will be missed by many, particularly the yard teams who looked after her for more than 20 years.
“It’s so tough when we lose one, especially when they are as special as Ebony,” said Bransby Horses PR officer Maria Thompson. “Everyone on the yard where she lived is heartbroken but we know she had an amazing, happy life with us and lived to a really good age.
“She was a very intelligent mule and when she was younger she liked to be doing things rather than just grazing in a field. Since she’s been retired she has been very happy playing and relaxing in her paddock with her little herd.”
Ebony was a firm favourite with Bransby teams and supporters alike. For many years, she was a popular Sponsorship Star (formerly known as the Adoption Club) but retired in 2019 to enjoy her retirement out of the limelight.
During her early years at the charity she was trained to pull a small cart to help with weight management and keep her busy and she lived with fellow mule Penelope and Shetland Cinderella for many years.
Earlier this year, Ebony celebrated a milestone 30th birthday with a mule-friendly cake, even making it onto BBC radio news.
“Ebony lived a full and happy life at Bransby Horses, made possible only by the kind donations of those who support the charity’s important equine welfare work,” added a charity spokesman. “All the teams at Bransby Horses are truly devastated and know this loss will be felt greatly by her supporters too.
“Bransby Horses will never forget their very special Ebony mule.”
