Somerset horse rescue back open to visitors after "devastating" floods
It's taken almost a month for Glenda Spooner Farm to recover from heavy rainfall
Last updated 19th Feb 2025
A horse rescue centre in Somerton has re-opened to visitors after their farm faced heavy rainfall and flash floods.
Glenda Spooner Farm has been shut to the public since the end of January, when a major incident was declared in Somerset.
Heavy rainfall affected not just the fields but a flash flood damaged the ground floors of two bungalows and their Visitor Centre.
Farm Manager Claire Dickie said: “It was like nothing we had ever seen before. We are pretty used to wet weather – living in Somerset – but it was like someone had tipped the sea into our farm.”
“Now the initial clean-up has finished we are looking forward to welcoming our supporters back. They can once again enjoy the coffee shop, Visitor Centre, crew yards and play area, as well as a short walk around the paddocks.
“Unfortunately, due to flood damage, the farm walks remain closed until further notice while repairs are under way,” Claire added.
"You can't predict what's going to happen next," said assistant manager Sara.
"We have to, going forwards, know that this is something that's going to happen on a regular basis because of climate change."
Fortunately, all the horses are doing well but clean up is still ongoing, and members of staff are still living in temporary accommodation.
In a statement, World Horse Welfare thanked everyone who offered to help during this challenging time.