A LIFE-SAVING operation costing £4,000 has restored the sight in one eye of a blind horse.

In July Pippa, a 19-year-old thoroughbreen cross-Arab breed who lives at Remus Memorial Horse Sanctuary in Ingatestone, went totally blind having suffered from cataracts for several years.

The animal faced being put down as the condition was causing problems including needing 150 stitches after running into a fence.

However vets from the Animal Health Trust in Newmarket, Suffolk, performed special surgery on her which has restored vision in her right eye.

Money was raised for the operation through fundraising events at the sanctuary.

Sue Burton, sanctuary manager, said she was “very proud” to have a Pippa back with a second chance of life.

Ms Burton, 50, said: “We are delighted to have been able to give Pippa the gift of sight and we are very grateful to the people who donated to raise the money needed and to the Animal Health Trust for performing the operation.

“Pippa has coped so well with so much and is an amazing girl.”

James McGovern, the sanctuary’s yard manager, also said it was great to see the horse in good health, although he added their is still work to be done.

The 26-year-old said: “We are thrilled to have Pippa back and looking so well.

“She still has a long way to go as we get her used to her old life and starting to go back out in the fields but she has already coped with the biggest step.”