Hitchin

Have you ever watched a team of working horses pulling a plough across a field?  It’s a sight that connects us to the land and one we associate with human history.  Working equines offer a practical, sustainable approach to farming, and this article explores that world through the lens of Hitchin Farm. 

Ellie and Mike Paddock run Hitchin Farm Working Horses in West Wales. They’ve built a life around 14 heavy horses, creating something inspiring and thought-provoking for anyone interested in the role of working horses today.

The Paddocks' 52-acre Horsepower Haven

In an age of industrial farming, a 52-acre plot in West Wales tells a different story. Here, the thundering of hooves replaces the roar of tractors, and working horses - not machines - shape the landscape.

With her husband Mike, Ellie runs Hitchin Farm Working Horses, an operation raising eyebrows in agricultural circles. They currently manage 24 equines, including horses in training - a number that would seem overwhelming if not for the methodical precision with which they approach their work.

From Arabian Nights to Welsh Fields

Ellie's story begins in the deserts of the Middle East, where she rode Arabian horses before a twist of fate led her to interview for a horse logging apprenticeship. Her interviewer? Mike Paddock, now her husband and business partner. Mike has always loved working horses, which led him to work at a royal estate.

Why Working Horses Matter Now

Working horses offer more than nostalgia in an era of climate crisis and sustainable agriculture. They provide a viable alternative to heavy machinery with minimal environmental impact and maximum soil protection. The Paddocks' approach demonstrates how traditional methods can be adapted for modern farming challenges.

Breeding the Ideal Working Horse

The Paddocks breed their own working horses.  They've observed that pedigree heavy horses, like the Brabant, often suffer from health issues such as Chronic Progressive Lymphangitis (CPL).  They’ve noted an 80% occurrence rate of CPL in two-year-old Brabants. 

This has shaped their focus on physical strength, a willing temperament, and good health. They cross European heavy horses with cobs to achieve this balance, gaining the Brabant's physique and the cob's intelligence. The resulting horses are adept at riding and driving, demonstrating their dexterity and calm nature.

The Working Horse Lifestyle: Natural and Varied

Ellie and Mike's horses live a natural lifestyle with ample outdoor time in their herds. This promotes health and builds confidence.

When not grazing, horses stay loose in barns, fostering a relaxed atmosphere.  This arrangement encourages natural horse behaviour and strengthens herd bonds. 

Training Stallions as Partners

Unconventionally, the Paddocks train stallions and mares to work together. They start early, ensuring stallions don't solely associate mares with breeding.

Young stallions are integrated with pregnant mares, learning appropriate behaviour.  While working, harnessed horses receive clear instructions, promoting cooperation even with mares in season.  This approach benefits both the individual horse and overall farm operations. 

The Working Horses' Repertoire

The horses at Hitchin Farm have varied responsibilities. Their skills range from logging and ploughing to harrowing and chariot races. 

Horses like Opal assist with riding, training, and other tasks that require confidence in the midst of activity.  This highlights the individual strengths and personalities within the working horse team. 

FAQs about Working Horses

What is the difference between a riding horse and a working horse?

Two key differences distinguish working horses from riding horses. Working horses are trained for more diverse tasks.

They need calm temperaments for physically and mentally demanding jobs like farm work or forest maintenance.

What is the best working horse?

The best farm workhorse isn’t just about breed.  Individual personality, physical condition, training, temperament, and health all play crucial roles. 

However, some breeds, like Clydesdales, Percherons, Suffolk Punch and Shire horses, are better suited due to their physical capabilities.  Selecting the right horse involves matching its attributes to the tasks at hand. 

What are working horses used for?

Working horse breeds are versatile, performing tasks such as ploughing, cultivating, harrowing, harvesting, and logging. They are also used in trail riding, livestock management, and weed control.

Additionally, they carry materials, provide carriage and sleigh rides, and participate in shows and competitions. Their adaptability makes them invaluable in various settings, both practical and recreational.

What is the lifespan of a workhorse? 

A horse's lifespan ranges from 25 to 30 years, depending on healthcare, genetics, nutrition, and work habits. Environmental and social conditions, injuries, diseases, and stimulation also contribute.

While farm work has inherent risks, responsible owners prioritize safety. Good working conditions help manage potential injuries and contribute to a longer, healthier life.

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www.hitchinfarm.co.uk

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Conclusion

Ellie and Mike's dedication to working horses transcends farming; it’s a lifestyle.  They challenge conventional views on farm work and horse keeping. 

Hitchin Farm makes us reconsider our relationship with horses and the potential roles they serve. Their 52-acre farm highlights sustainable practices, promotes equine versatility, and preserves important rural skills.