A HORSE believed to be oldest in the world has passed away.

    Orchid died aged 50 last week at the Remus Horse Sanctuary, in Ingateston, Essex, Britain.

    She celebrated the milestone birthday in January this year and was showered with cards from well-wishers.

    Sue Burton, founder of the sanctuary, said, “Orchid was a beautiful girl.

    “Her time here was a happy one, it was easy to see, especially with her new friend Guinness, and we’ve got lots of memories and some lovely photos.”

    Orchid arrived at Remus Horse Sanctuary in June 2014 in a poor condition.

    Sue said, “With the care she received here, she put on weight, gained strength and her health improved massively within weeks of arriving at the Sanctuary.”

    Staff at the horse charity were distraught when Orchid fell victim to a common digestive disorder called equine colic.

    The previous record holder — a horse called Shayne who died September 2014 at the age of 51 — was also rescued by the Remus Horse Sanctuary.

    (SD-Agencies)