Just like Black Beauty, who experienced hardships and cruelty at the hands of uncaring humans, Maya endured a harrowing start to her life before finding safety and happiness at Redwings Horse Sanctuary.
The beautiful Friesian was rescued by Redwings in 2010 with six other horses who had been found in terrible condition on a site in Essex. One of their friends had even sadly passed away from neglect. Going without decent food and care for so long left Maya weak, anaemic and worm-ridden, and her muscles were simply wasting away.
Despite fears she would not survive, Maya made a full recovery thanks to months of intensive veterinary care. Her former owner was also found guilty of causing suffering. Now free to live a happy and healthy life at Redwings, her dazzling looks and friendly nature soon made Maya a favourite with visitors and she became a member of the charity’s popular Adoption Scheme in 2014.
As a fitting tribute to her courage and the 140th birthday of the classic book, it’s hoped fans of Black Beauty and its Norfolk-born author Anna Sewell will join Maya in celebrating her own birthday with a party at Redwings Aylsham, north of Norwich, on Sunday 14th May, starting at 11.30am.
On the big day, visitors will have the chance to enjoy cuddles with Maya, join in a quiz trail and party games, and watch her tuck into her very own birthday cake!
Gemma Walpole, Redwings’ Head of Fundraising, said:
“Maya is a stunning horse who, despite her past ordeal, is incredibly friendly and loving.
“As well as her story drawing parallels with Black Beauty, the message behind the book of caring for animals and showing kindness and respect to each other drives straight to the heart of what Redwings is all about. We hope as many people as possible will come along to Maya’s birthday party to celebrate not just this lovely horse, but also a beautiful book and local author in this special year.”
Supporters can sponsor Maya for £12.50 a year, with funds going towards her daily care and that of her friends. Anyone who sponsors one of Redwings’ 24 Adoption Stars can visit them for free on any open day at the centre where they live and receive updates on their four-legged friend’s progress. They’re even invited to celebrate their Adoption Star’s birthday with a party every year – just like Maya’s.
And if partying with one stunning Adoption Star isn’t enough, Redwings Aylsham’s other resident Adoption Stars will be celebrating their birthdays with parties, including:
Cheeky donkey duo Wiggins and Wacko on Sunday 11th June
Notorious mob of mini Shetland ponies The Gangsters on Sunday 23rd July
Handsome Thoroughbred cross Gulliver on Sunday 27th August
Maya’s birthday party will take place on Sunday 14th May from 11.30am. Join in the celebrations at Redwings Aylsham, Spa Lane, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6UE. For more information about the Adoption Club or to sponsor a Redwings Adoption Star, www.redwings.org.uk/adopting
