Rutland Farm Park, a family run 18-acre farm near the centre of Oakham, have recently announced the passing of one of their most popular residents, Mr Tom.

Rutland Farm Park is both a working farm and popular local attraction for Rutland families and visitors to the area, offering feeding sessions in the spring as well as a café, play area, and an array of animal sightings and learning opportunities for visiting children.

The farm was a popular family attraction in the 80's and 90's, but was forced to shut in 2001 following the UK-wide outbreak of foot and mouth disease. The farm remained closed to the public until 2017, when it once again began welcoming visitors.

Today, it is a family attraction that, for 5 years, has hosted thousands of visitors who have all had the pleasure of meeting Mr Tom.

Mr Tom was 12 years-old and, with a distinctive 'moustache', was a much-loved sight at the farm for many Oakham locals.

He had regular health issues and the farm had to ask residents to resist feeding him over the farm wall due to this.

Unfortunately, despite battling hard against issues such as laminitis, Mr Tom passed away on the 24th of June 2022.

Farm Amy of Rutland Farm Park posted on social media: "It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of my beloved shire, Mr Tom. 

"Unfortunately Mr Tom was put to sleep today after he became unwell at the weekend. With huge efforts from the vets, who tried so incredibly hard & did everything they could to make Tom better, but sadly couldn't be saved. 

"I am absolutely heartbroken as of everyone on the farm. He was a big part of this farm park and he will be missed by so many.

"My world Is totally broken right now and hopefully time will heal for all of us. 

"Thank you to every one who has been there for us and an even bigger thank you to all the staff at Oakham Veterinary Hospital for everything that they did for Mr Tom, and thank you Phill our farrier who has been very good with Tom and feet over the last year. Having recovered from laminitis we are so saddened to have lost him to a different condition. 

"The farm will not be same without you Tom."

As one life ends at the farm, others are beginning, and the farm has seen the arrival of multiple youngsters over the past weeks.

The most recent of these was a gorgeous baby alpaca only one week ago.

Rutland Farm Park's newest arrival

To visit these new arrivals as well as the well-established collection of animals being cared for at the farm, head over between 10am and 5pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

Prices range from £7.50 - 28, with children under the age of 3 going free. The farm also offer a 10% military discount.

Head over to the Rutland Farm Park website to find out more and to plan your visit.