A riding school has been forced to close temporarily after an outbreak of herpes was confirmed among its horses.
Three horses out of 30 at the Pakefield Riding School in Lowestoft have been diagnosed with the disease.
After one of the horses developed a fever, the horse was moved into isolation with positive tests for Equine Herpesvirus (EHV) recorded.
Further blood tests later revealed that two further horses had also recorded positive diagnosis for the disease - which can lie dormant but then flare up - leading to the business owners and staff at the stables facing an uncertain future.
The horses have to remain in isolation from the other animals as the stables are closed until at least April 17.
However, amid the heartbreak, the community has rallied to show its support with fundraisers planned and a GoFundMe page set up to help raise monies for the expensive medical costs as well as hay and feed, bedding and day to day costs.
Amazingly, within the space of three days, more than £6,250 of the £10,000 target has been raised.
With it being "a very difficult time" for all, owner and proprietor of Pakefield Riding School Tess Hardy, 90 - who has run the business on Carlton Road since 1946 - said the outbreak was a fresh blow after the business had weathered the Covid pandemic.
She added: "Other than Covid we have never shut our doors.
"I am so touched by the kindness of everyone.
"Thank you all so much for the support we have received."
"It's very overwhelming how wonderful everyone has been - it is very much appreciated".
Chantelle Cable, who works as an instructress at the riding school, said: "We are very thankful all our horses are doing very well, all slightly confused by their 'holiday' but all making the most of it."
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