THE oldest horse at Margaret Green Animal Rescue has passed away, aged 31.

Angel was rescued by Margaret Green herself in 1985 and had been a fixture at the Church Knowle animal sanctuary, near Swanage, ever since.

Church Knowle sanctuary manager Claire Ross said: “Angel held a very special place in all our hearts and we wish to thank everybody that supported and sponsored her throughout her life at the sanctuary.

“Angel was kind and gentle and brought huge amounts of joy to everybody that met her.

“She will be missed by us all.”

When Angel was found in a field in 1985 she was barely able to stand and was dangerously underweight.

A Margaret Green Animal Rescue spokesman explained: “Her body was covered in abrasions and lice and both her legs were badly swollen.

“Further tests revealed a significant degree of anaemia, red worm infection and other abnormalities.

“Her condition showed evidence of severe neglect and she was quickly brought to Margaret Green Animal Rescue for care and treatment from the dedicated staff and vets.”

Thankfully Angel went on to make a full recovery and enjoyed three decades at the sanctuary, where she became a favourite with staff, volunteers and visitors.

Indeed, at Christmas in 2009, just days before the animal charity’s founder Margaret Green passed away, she was ensuring provisions had been made for the delivery of Angel’s Christmas carrots. Staff at the sanctuary say Angel will be remembered during a series of special events throughout this year, as Margaret Green Animal Rescue celebrates its 50th anniversary.