A horse sanctuary based in Budleigh Salterton in Devon is the first to go public following massive interest in horse power in the wake of increased fuel costs.
Happy Valley Horse Sanctuary has decided to release shares in the company to raise finance for expansion into executive cart production and artificial insemination programmes. Sanctuary owner Juliette Simpson said, “The past twelve months has seen a steady increase in enquiries from people looking for alternative travel arrangements because of fuel increases. Our horses are coming out of retirement to help hard pressed executives commute from country retreats to their city headquarters.”
Steve Grant who makes a regular commute from East Devon to London said, “I’ve bought shares in Happy Valley as well as purchasing my own streamlined carriage and pair. Although it adds an extra day to my journey it has the advantage that my work has been done before I get there.”
High street giants including Premier Inn and Welcome Inn are now making extra provision for horses and carts with ensuite stables and horse changing facilities. In addition jolly landlords and serving wenches are being employed to see to the needs of weary travellers.
However police have reported an increase in highway robberies which are totally unrelated to rip-off petrol forecourts. Gangs of brigands are waylaying unfortunate travellers and demanding jewellery and money in exchange for their lives.
A spokesman for Happy Valley said, “If we can get further investment through sales of shares then we can look to increase cart security with the provision of blunderbusses and horse whips. This will also lead to a decrease in insurance premiums.”
London Mayor, Boris Johnson has denied claims that he is considering a horse congestion charge as a means of replacing lost car revenue.
