Named Marley, he sadly passed away in the early hours of last Tuesday September 9.

In August Marley been rescued in an emaciated state from boglands at Mallusk where he had been left to starve. He was taken to Crosskennan Lane Animal Sanctuary (CLAS) where he was cared for by its volunteers.

When he was found a decision was made to give this old horse the best possible chance of recovery. Volunteers worked tirelessly, day and night, dealing with the ailments associated with old age. His warm mash feed, supplemented with probiotics, herbs and veterinary medication, was given every two hours.

Lyn Friel, the sanctuary’s founder and manager, said: “His spirit, that so impressed everyone on the first evening, continued to impress on a daily basis. After a day or two it seemed as if he had been at the sanctuary all his life, knowing his way around to the garden. He even had his own chosen friend, Sorley, a stallion who is one of the most nervous residents - on one occasion spending time together in Marley’s stable.

“At feeding time his vocal encouragement meant he was never late receiving his mash. He even came looking for his feeds if someone’s watch was obviously slow, his body clock was always just right.”

“With everything that was being done, his condition was improving and he had put on some weight. He was well enough to join in with one of the ‘Animals Helping People’ groups that the sanctuary run. This particular group of young people, all around 11years old, had met Marley when he first arrived and were amazed by the difference that four weeks had made to him. The group were able to feed, groom and lead Marley, his lovely temperament making it a special and memorable occasion.

“Marley’s last evening was spent in the garden, contentedly picking at grass. At 1am he whinnied heartily for his feed, which he finished in his stable. He passed away peacefully during the night

Lyn added: “Whether or not this was Mickey Marley’s horse, he was a horse in big trouble. Although his stay at Crosskennan was brief, he enjoyed a good quality of life and was happy and content for all of it. CLAS also feel it has benefited from knowing Marley - their knowledge of the conditions and treatment of older horses has increased.”

Since details of Marley’s plight were featured in the Press, people have contacted the sanctuary looking for help with older horses.