**Woodfield Animal Sanctuary: Perseverance in the Face of Loss**
In the heart of Gower, a dedicated team has found a way to carry on after tragedy shook their community to its core. The Woodfield Animal Sanctuary, a lifeline for hundreds of vulnerable creatures, was plunged into uncertainty following the untimely death of its beloved founder Robbie Bartington in June 2024. Despite the overwhelming challenges, the sanctuary stands strong a year later, a testament to the resilience and commitment of its volunteers.
Bartington, who passed away at the age of 71, had transformed her retirement into a mission of compassion. Having moved to Gower from the Home Counties with her husband, David Wallis, she quickly set aside dreams of a quiet life when they discovered abandoned horses wandering onto their land. What began as an accident—a handful of rescues—soon blossomed into a sprawling sanctuary housing a staggering array of animals, including horses, sheep, cows, cats, dogs, and even an alpaca.
Since its founding in 2013, Woodfield Animal Sanctuary has saved over 500 animals, its care and dedication breathing new hope into the lives of those creatures left unwanted or abused. Bartington’s vision became a haven for animals and volunteers alike, fostering a tight community around the sanctuary’s vital work. Her sudden death left the future of the sanctuary in question.
After her passing, tributes poured in—most notably a touching video compiled by those closest to her, remembering the incredible difference she had made. Yet grief was swiftly accompanied by a stark choice: should the sanctuary close its doors for good, or could it continue to honour Bartington’s legacy? The question hung heavy over David Wallis and the team.
Nathan Roberts, who had practically grown up at Woodfield under Bartington’s tutelage, and Alison Edwards, another steadfast volunteer, decided to take up the mantle. Reflecting on the last twelve months, Roberts described the experience as “incredibly rough and tough”, but said the sight of the animals in need fuelled them to push forward. “Robbie put absolutely everything into the sanctuary,” he recalled. “She was a truly remarkable person, and the amount of miracles I’ve witnessed here since 2013 is astonishing.”
For Roberts, the sanctuary is more than a place of work—it is a formative part of his life. His connection with Bartington began as a teenager when he answered an advert for help at the yard in exchange for a stable for his rescue horse. “Robbie sort of brought me up as her own child, really,” he shared. “When I heard she had passed away so suddenly, the thought of the sanctuary closing was too much, and I came straight back to help.”
The past year, he admits, has not been without adversity. The loss of Bartington left the sanctuary vulnerable, with the first six months marked by what he described as “constant fighting” to keep their doors open. However, the outpouring of community support fortified their resolve. Extensive upgrades, particularly to drainage and the yard’s infrastructure, have modernised the site—transforming the muddy winter landscape and ensuring better conditions for both animals and volunteers.
Yet the harsh reality of financial pressures looms large. Veterinary costs, especially for caring for abandoned colts in need of castration, continue to be a major strain. “People often indiscriminately breed these animals,” Roberts explained. “When they realise the cost and lack of value, they simply dump them. We’ve worked closely with local authorities and the police to tackle this ongoing crisis.”
One of their most dramatic rescues to date occurred recently, when a grey stallion, now named Michael, became ensnared in wire out on the Gower commons. The complex rescue operation, involving specialist teams and significant expense, resulted in a new life for Michael, who continues his recovery at the sanctuary. He joins other equines in urgent need of care, a poignant reflection of Wales’s growing issue of unchecked equine breeding.
The drive to keep the sanctuary operating involves tireless appeals for donations and community support. “Sometimes it’s hard for people to grasp the enormity of what goes into these rescues,” Roberts said. “A single operation can involve hours of work, a team of vets and specialists—and it’s all worth it to see an animal safe.”
Looking towards the future, Roberts and Edwards are committed to sustaining the sanctuary’s work, and even hope to expand with sufficient support. As a way to engage the public and honour Bartington’s legacy, Woodfield is preparing to host an open day, inviting people to meet the residents and learn more about the sanctuary’s mission. Among the animals now are two foals named in Robbie’s honour, a living tribute to her memory and enduring impact.
Despite hardships and the shadow of loss, the team at Woodfield Animal Sanctuary continue to embody the spirit and compassion of their founder, proving that even in the wake of tragedy, hope and determination can prevail. Those wishing to support their mission or to find out more about forthcoming events can visit the sanctuary or follow their updates online.