“WE DID EVERYTHING WE COULD”: HEARTBREAK AT CANNON HALL FARM AS BELOVED SHIRE HORSES ARE LOST

The team behind The Yorkshire Vet and Cannon Hall Farm have faced an emotional few months, as the loss of much-loved Shire mare Ruby and foal Iris left a lasting mark on the people who cared for them.

Behind the heartwarming farm videos and adorable animal moments, life at Cannon Hall Farm has also brought some deeply painful days.

The farm’s Shire horses have been at the centre of an emotional journey, with the team recently reflecting on the loss of Ruby, a much-loved mare, and Iris, a foal whose story had touched people following the farm online.

For farmers Rob and Dave Nicholson and equine vet Marco, caring for these magnificent horses means celebrating new arrivals while also facing the difficult realities of animal health, complications and loss.

THE HEARTBREAK BEHIND THE FARM’S SHIRE HORSES

Shire horses are a rare breed, and breeding them requires patience, specialist care and constant attention. When complications arise, even experienced farmers and veterinary professionals can face difficult decisions.

Cannon Hall Farm has spoken openly about the challenges its team encountered over recent months, including the efforts made to save Ruby and Iris.

The losses were especially painful because the horses were not simply part of a breeding programme. They were animals the team knew, cared for and had invested time and hope in.

A VET WHO SHARED THE JOURNEY

Equine vet Marco joined the farm team for a special online event on September 20, 2026, to discuss what had happened, the attempts to help the horses and the difficult decisions involved in their care.

The conversation also included more hopeful developments, including Yorkshire Rose’s success in the show ring and updates on the farm’s other Shire horses.

The team continues working to support the future of this increasingly rare breed, despite the emotional setbacks.

HOPE AFTER HEARTBREAK

The story at Cannon Hall Farm is a reminder that caring for animals can bring extraordinary joy — but it can also involve grief, uncertainty and decisions that no one wants to face.

For the people who work with these horses every day, Ruby and Iris will remain part of the farm’s story.

Their loss has not ended the team’s commitment to its remaining horses or its efforts to help preserve the Shire breed. Instead, the farm continues to share both the difficult moments and the reasons it keeps going.