Iconic Rhossili cliff horses to be removed over safety concerns

Iconic Rhossili cliff horses to be removed over safety concerns

The stunning view of horses peacefully grazing on the picturesque cliffs of a coastal beauty spot has been a beloved sight for more than a century. However, concerns about the size and behavior of the herd have led to a decision that could see their numbers decrease soon. Farmer Nick Beynon shared that the National Trust has informed him that some of the horses on the cliffs of Rhossili in Swansea will need to be relocated by 1 December.

Mr. Beynon, who comes from a long line of farmers, expressed his disappointment over the potential move, emphasizing that his family has had grazing rights in the area for generations. He believes that the removal of the horses would not only impact him personally but also the wider community that has come to appreciate the presence of these animals in the scenic landscape. National Trust Cymru cited complaints about a stallion and the exceeding number of horses as reasons for the decision to enforce the agreed limit on grazing.

Mr. Beynon recounted receiving an unexpected letter last week, demanding a reduction in the number of horses on the cliffs. Concerned about the lack of fencing on the boundaries, he pointed out that the animals have been escaping, posing a challenge in managing the herd. Additionally, he raised issues about a faulty foot gate that needed fixing and reiterated his commitment to upholding the family tradition of having the horses on the land adjacent to the cliff.

Support for Mr. Beynon has come from another local farmer, Rob Morgan, who described the situation as a “nightmare” and emphasized the emotional toll it would take to sell the horses during the winter. He underlined the strong connection people feel with the horses and their surroundings, noting the positive impact these animals have on visitors and farmers alike. The National Trust reiterated its concerns about public safety and the welfare of both visitors and horses, emphasizing the need for cooperation to ensure the ecological health of the area

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