One summer’s day in 1997 John came home and told Christine that a member of staff Cheryl was looking for a home for a little horse named ‘Simba’, who had been born with deformed forelegs. Our local vet Dewi came out to look at Simba; he said that he could operate on one of his legs to give him a better standard of life. The operation went well, however there was a chance he would not live long due to the likelihood of arthritis. When we went to collect Simba the vet had operated on both forelegs, and so Gypsy Wood was created in 2004 by John and Christine, having been together for over 30 years, and spent most of that time in the licensing industry.

After the operation it was time to trim Simba’s hooves, our local farrier Edwin came to carry out the task, however Simba was having none of it. John found himself in a muddy field holding Simba down to get the job done. Simba maybe small, but he is a strong pony with the most amazing character. As the months went by and they gained experience, John and Christine decided that Simba needed company and they acquired a couple of Miniature Shetland Fillies. John and Christine are still amazed by the attachment and bond which is created with the horses. Each one is amazing in their own right having such personalities.

Simba became one of the family and by now he has seven girls to keep him company, and despite his disability he can still keep up with them! Simba will never win any prizes in a show ring, but is a champion in our eyes! Simba and all his friends have given so much pleasure. Keep your eyes out for him because if it was not for giving him a home and touching their hearts, Gypsy Wood would not be here today…

Before the park opened Christine and John struggled to find a suitable name for the park, their next door neighbor told them that the wood area which joined their two fields was called Gypsy Wood. After further enquiries Christine and John discovered the story of the man in the tent (the last true Romany to reside in Bontnewydd). Mr Lovell camped in the field opposite and used the river which ran through Gypsy Wood.

At Gypsy Wood we aim to spread a little happiness and enchantment. Our success is not measured by pounds and pennies but by the hearts we have touched.
One comment Christine received once was ‘People who do not know about horses should not have them’. Christine’s answer is ‘With Love, Commitment and Knowledge from those willing to help, anything is possible’.

Enjoy!  X