HORSES seized from a Jersey equestrian centre earlier this month may be sold to recover money owed by the owner.
A notice of distraint published in the Jersey Gazette lists “all movable assets and live stock” belonging to Elenor Schofield of Happy Hooves. A proposed sale relating to horses was scheduled to close earlier this week.
A notice of distraint is a formal legal notice issued after a court judgment for unpaid debt, informing the debtor – and the public – that assets have been or may be seized and sold to recover the money owed.
The sale by tender process for the horses was not made public, but the JEP understands that interested parties were invited to apply to submit a bid for the livery.
It comes after 12 horses, three goats, chickens, ducks and guinea were seized from Five Oaks-based equestrian centre Happy Hooves and placed into private care across the Island.
The States Vet, working with the Viscount’s Department, took the animals on Friday 16 January.
Happy Hooves contacted several customers to inform them that the riding school would be ceasing trading and that its horses were due to be seized.
A message seen by the JEP described the situation as “heartbreaking”, and explained that it was the result of a Petty Debts judgment.
Police officers, a mediator from debt recovery agency Skyfall, and members of agricultural service David Dumosch Ltd were also present to assist with the intervention.
A fundraiser was later launched by David Dumosch to raise “essential funds” to aid the ongoing nurturing and maintenance of the animals. It has raised over £5,000 so far.
The Viscount’s Department did not respond to requests for comment.
