Murphy

KENTISH Town City Farm is in mourning after the death of a horse who had brought joy to thousands of children for more than 25 years.

Murphy, who died surrounded by farm staff on March 12, had a gentle and fun nature who was a firm favourite with Pony Club members and adult riders with disabilities.

The farm estimated he had been ridden by 20,000 people since arriving at the farm aged 6 in 1997.

In a statement posted online, the Farm said: “Diane, Claire and the rest of the team are devastated at the loss of our Smurf. We miss him deeply now, and always will.

“He was a very very special lad. Please remember him with a smile, and maybe a little wobbly lip. Thank you to all of the vets & staff at the RVC [Royal Veterinary College], who gave Murphy the absolute best care.”

Murphy had in recent months been living with his friend Jester in a yard at Barnet after the horse area was fenced off due to Network Rail works.

“It’s comforting for us that he got to have the retirement he deserved after so many years of devoted service to the community,” the farm staff said.

He had competed in the London Youth Games for many years, as well as show jumping, dressage and cross country shows.