Shire horses Joey and William have returned to a park in Wandsworth, London, to enhance the biodiversity of the landscape and promote the continued use of heavy horses in conservation. The gentle giants visited King George’s Park today (Thursday, 7 July) to continue their efforts for the environment.
The project is part of a capital-wide initiative to boost wildlife in London’s green spaces and create nature corridors from one outdoor space to another. Not-for-profit organisation Enable, who manage parks and greenspaces on behalf of Wandsworth Council, has been awarded funds to help make the Rewild London project possible.
Supported by The Mayor of London, and in partnership with the London Wildlife Trust, the aim is to create wildflower meadows and biodiversity rich woodlands. A total of £600,000 has been granted via the Rewild London Fund to 19 projects across the capital. The projects will enhance and connect 54 of London’s Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINCs) and create more natural habitats for plants and animals to thrive.
“We can’t wait to welcome back Joey and William, who attended the site in late May to carry out the first stage of their work,” said an Enable spokesman before the Shires’ return visit. “These sessions were run by Enable and Wandsworth Council in collaboration with Operation Centaur, a working horses group who keep the art of working with rare breed heavy horses alive, through estate conservation, heritage, community projects and equine therapy.
“The popular event was attended by local school Southfields Academy, with nearly 40 students being able to come along and see the horses in action, and enjoy a Q&A session.”
