19/05/2026
We are beyond devastated to announce that we recently lost two of our beloved ponies – Derek and Hansel – to colic. Even typing those words is bringing tears to our eyes again.
Each of the ponies in our care are much loved for their different personalities and funny little ways. When we have to say goodbye to them, they leave a real hole in our hearts. Derek and Hansel may only have been small but they had huge personalities.
Derek was a miniature Shetland who thought he was a mighty Shire horse! He was ‘wingman’ to Brambles (the boss of the Elstree herd) and stomped around next to him as if he was twice the size. One of Derek’s little ‘things’ was putting his head in a bucket and pushing it around a bit before rolling – still with his head in the bucket. When putting the feed in the dinner buckets, Derek would always try to put his head down – sending the scoop of feed flying. He learnt the phrase, “Head up!” and would jerk his head up and stand there waiting, looking like butter wouldn’t melt. When Brambles was called after dinner to come and have his meds, Derek would be sure to be right behind him – ever hopeful of licking the scraps out of the coveted purple medicine bucket. Funny, sweet boy.
Hansel came to us as a foal, along with Gretel (who sadly passed away as a yearling). After that, Hansel became very good friends with McGee, who looked after him and was his constant companion. As Hansel grew up, he started becoming friendly with Darcy. For a while, it was the three chestnuts boys together but there came a point where Hansel and Darcy became the best of friends (and McGee befriended the foal gang). Hansel and Darcy were always together – eating together, going for a drink together and spending lots of time grooming each other. Hansel also loved being groomed by all the volunteers, he would follow them around the field and wait patiently until they noticed him. In the evening, most of the herd would eat from the hay boxes together but Hansel and Darcy would always go and eat at a different box. Whenever we look at Darcy, it feels like he has a huge Hansel-shaped hole next to him. We miss you, beautiful Hansel.
Derek and Hansel – we will never, ever forget you. You were such a big part of the Elstree herd and are much missed by your pony and human friends. Brave boys – we will hold you in our hearts forever.
