Countryfile presenter Adam Henson has expressed his excitement about the impending arrival of a critically endangered Suffolk Punch foal at his Cotswold Farm Park in 2026. The foal, due in May, is the offspring of his mare Lexy, a favourite among visitors.
In BBC Countryfile Magazine, Henson described the birth as a 'big deal', noting that the Suffolk Punch, like other British heavy horse breeds, is critically endangered. Fewer than 500 Suffolk Punch horses exist worldwide, with only 75 breeding females in the UK.
Henson highlighted the breed's historical role in ploughing and hauling, now long gone, leading to drastically dwindling numbers. He prioritises a 'trouble-free birth' and hopes for a 'fit and healthy' foal.
The striking chestnut-coloured Suffolk Punch can weigh over one tonne and is classified as critically endangered by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust due to the low number of breeding mares.
Henson revealed Lexy's pregnancy earlier this year, sharing updates via YouTube and Instagram. In a video, he met Alison from Holbeache Stud, who confirmed Lexy was in foal after two positive scans.
