After nearly two decades of bringing joy, laughter and unforgettable experiences to visitors, we’re remembering Mischief, our much-loved cob pony.
The team at Calvert Stables, part of the Lake District Calvert Trust, is mourning the loss of Mischief, a very special member of our equine family who touched the lives of hundreds of visitors, riders, staff and volunteers since joining the stables in 2007. Mischief was generously bought by Keswick Lions and sponsored by the Friends of Calvert Trust (Lake District).
A ride and drive cob, Mischief was a firm favourite with everyone who met him. While he enjoyed riding sessions, his real passion was carriage driving. Taking wheelchair users out in the trap gave those with limited mobility an accessible riding experience unlike any other and brought joy to so many visitors. With his distinctive character, cheeky nature and love of attention, he had a remarkable ability to make people smile.
For both the Calvert Stables team and their visitors, Mischief was far more than a pony. He was part of the family and played an important role in creating inclusive experiences that make the stables so memorable.
Mischief’s passing on Thursday 29th November was peaceful, and he was surrounded by the stables team and received specialist care of the vets from Frame and Swift Ltd.
Louise Hogan, Stables Manager at Calvert Stables, said:
“Chiefy was a huge character with a great sense of humour, he could make anyone laugh with his antics. As soon as he arrived, we learnt how he got his name as he ducked under the stable bar to find the nearest patch of grass.
He gave countless people the confidence to carriage drive. He leaves a huge hole in our team and is already missed greatly.”
Calvert Stables provides accessible and inclusive riding and carriage driving opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. As an approved British Horse Society and Riding for the Disabled Association centre, we give people the opportunity to experience the physical and emotional benefits of spending time with horses.
For many visitors, these experiences can be life-enhancing. Whether building confidence, developing new skills, enjoying time outdoors or simply sharing a cuddle with a pony, the horses are at the heart of what makes Calvert Stables so special.
Mischief was a wonderful ambassador for this work. His patience, personality and unmistakable cheekiness helped create countless happy memories, and his absence will be felt by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.
The Calvert Stables team would like to thank everyone who loved, cared for, sponsored, rode or spent time with Mischief over the years. He leaves behind a legacy of happy memories, special connections and plenty of mischief.
He will be very much missed.
If you’d like to find out more about our horses or are considering sponsoring a pony, get in touch with the Stables team.