Lincoln’s Bransby Horses Charity devastated by Storm Babet Flooding
The Bransby Horses charity, stationed near Lincoln, is seeking assistance following destructive flooding resulting from Storm Babet. The charity, which utilizes more than 40% of its territory to house the horses, states that the equivalent of 300 football fields is now submerged underwater.
72-hour Flood Warning
The morning of October 20 saw The Environment Agency hand a two-hour warning to the charity. An intentional flooding of the Till Washlands was imminent, a territory including parts of the horses' grazing land. It's part of the charity's collaborative effort with the Environment Agency to limit flooding in Lincoln; they offer their grazing terrain as flood plains.
"Despite moving 100 horses to safety, many have had to be moved again following rising water levels. Looking at this week’s forecast we may see the current situation get worse and the impact will continue long after the water subsides and will almost certainly impact our winter grazing." - Victoria Elliot, head of estates at Bransby Horses
Charity’s Operation at Risk
Approximately 70 horses were evacuated from the flood-bound fields without delay, and a further 30 horses were transported to safety over that weekend. This natural disaster's collateral damage may temper the charity's ability to accommodate new rescues and has initiated a review of the organisation's operations capacity.
Uncompensated Flooding Crisis
Further exacerbating the issue, Bransby Horses receives no funding or compensation for the flooding of its grazing land. This zero-compensation policy means the charity must bear the flooding's fiscal ramifications, with an already challenging economic climate looming over them.
"At the moment weather permitting we are open to visitors. Now more than ever we need to continue raising funds for the charity to help pay for the cost of the latest flooding." - Sally Banton, executive director of engagement and income generation
In the light of recent national recognition, winning the Best Small Visitor Attraction Award, the team at Bransby Horses are determined to keep their doors open, warmly welcoming visits, donations, and support during this time of crisis.