We are calling for urgent action to prevent the removal of horses and ponies currently grazing in the fields at St Helens Woods.

These horses and ponies, some of whom are rescues, have been peacefully grazing this land and are well cared for. They pose no risk, cause no damage, and have become a valued part of both the local environment and the community.

Importantly, grazing horses play a positive role in supporting wildlife and maintaining healthy land. Their natural grazing helps to:

 • Prevent overgrowth of coarse grasses and invasive plants

 • Create a varied grass structure that benefits insects, birds, and small mammals

 • Maintain open spaces that support biodiversity rather than scrub takeover

 • Naturally fertilise the soil, improving ground health without chemicals

This kind of low-impact, traditional grazing is widely recognised as beneficial for woodland edges and pastureland, helping to keep the land balanced, accessible, and ecologically healthy.

The decision to remove these animals has come without clear reason, and their owners have no alternative grazing available. Forcing them out of this field would place their health, welfare, and safety at serious risk, and could undo the positive environmental management currently taking place.

Many of these animals have already experienced hardship. Removing them from a safe and suitable environment would cause unnecessary stress and could lead to serious welfare consequences.

We respectfully ask the relevant authorities and landowners to:

 • Immediately halt any action to remove the horses and ponies

 • Engage in open discussion with their owners to find a fair, humane solution

 • Allow continued grazing at St Helens Woods, recognising both the welfare and environmental benefits

This petition is about animal welfare, environmental care, and community responsibility. These horses and ponies deserve stability, and the land deserves the gentle, sustainable management they provide.

Please help us protect them by signing and supporting this petition.