2025 has already been an exciting year at Robinsons Brewery, with the arrival of three beautiful Shire foals as part of our ongoing dedication to the preservation of this iconic breed. Since the launch of our Shire Breeding Programme in 2018, we’ve proudly welcomed each new addition with care, tradition, and celebration. These foals represent not only the future of the Shire horse breed but also the continuation of nearly 200 years of brewing and agricultural heritage at Robinsons.

Hillgate Lady Gwendolen “Gwen”

Robinsons Brewery is proud to announce the birth of Hillgate Lady Gwendolen, a spirited filly born to mare Dolly on the evening of Thursday 13th February 2025. Gwen is distinguished by four white socks and a blaze and was the first foal of 2025 for Robinsons’ Shire Breeding Programme. Named after Lady Gwendolen Robinson, wife of Sir John Robinson, Gwen is already capturing hearts across the Robinsons Shires social media pages. The filly’s sire is Acle Valentino of Thorpe Hill Stud, and both mother and foal are healthy and thriving under the care of Head Horseperson, Helen Preece.

Hillgate Harriet “Hattie”
 
Born on Saturday 3rd May 2025 to mare Dilly, Hillgate Harriet—fondly known as Hattie—is the second foal of the season in Robinsons Brewery’s Shire Breeding Programme. With a lively spirit and a strong presence, Hattie is already making her mark in the paddock. She is named in honour of Harriet Robinson, eldest granddaughter of George Robinson, brother to Frederic Robinson. Hattie is the foal of Hillgate Cordelia’s Charm, herself named after Cordelia Robinson, and sired by Trem Y Wyddfa Monarch – who is also the sire of “Indie,” making the two foals half-siblings. Hattie is also the first second-generation foal from the programme, a truly remarkable milestone in the Brewery’s growing legacy of Shire horses.

Hillgate IPA “Indie”
 
The final arrival of the season, Hillgate I.P.A- nicknamed Indie – was born on Monday 12th May 2025 to mare Rosie. This striking colt, with his bold markings and naturally inquisitive nature, is already showing signs of a confident temperament. Indie is named in celebration of Robinsons’ brewing heritage, and his birth reinforces the brewery’s ongoing dedication to preserving and championing the Shire breed. Under the expert care of Head Horseperson Helen Preece and her team, Indie is thriving as the newest member of the Robinsons Shires family.

Interesting fact: To help keep track of the growing Robinsons Brewery Shires family, each foal is named sequentially following the alphabet, a tradition that adds a layer of organisation and charm to our Shire Breeding Programme!

Celebrating a Milestone for Helen Preece

As we welcome new life into the Robinsons stables this year, we’re also proud to celebrate a very special milestone: Helen Preece, our dedicated Head Horseperson, marks over 20 years with Robinsons Brewery in 2025. Helen first came to us in 2002 for a six-week work experience placement – and she’s been part of the family ever since. Over the past two decades, Helen has played an instrumental role in the care, training, and growth of our Shire horses, leading the breeding programme with passion and expertise. Her deep knowledge, unwavering commitment, and genuine love for the horses have made her a beloved figure within the team and beyond. From early morning foalings to winning ribbons at shows, Helen has been at the heart of it all, and we couldn’t be more grateful for her years of service. Here’s to Helen, and to many more years of hoofprints and happiness ahead!