A SOMERSET equine charity has re-opened to visitors after being left devastated by flooding.

Glenda Spooner Farm near Somerton – home to the World Horse Welfare charity – suffered widespread damage in recent storms and was forced to close to the public.

Heavy rainfall affected not just fields, but a flash flood also damaged the ground floors of two bungalows used as groom’s accommodation and the WHW Visitor Centre.

Farm manager, Claire Dickie, said: “It was like nothing we had ever seen before. We are pretty used to wet weather – living in Somerset – but it was like someone had tipped the sea into our farm.

“Now the initial clean-up has finished we are looking forward to welcoming our supporters back. They can once again enjoy the coffee shop, Visitor Centre, crew yards and play area, as well as a short walk around the paddocks.

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“Unfortunately, due to flood damage, the farm walks remain closed until further notice while repairs are underway.”

All the horses living on the farm are doing well, she said, with affected members of staff moved to temporary accommodation while the clean-up continues.

“World Horse Welfare would like to extend thanks to everyone who has offered to help during this challenging time,” a spokesperson added.

For more on the charity, log on to worldhorsewelfare.org.