Lots of Hillside staff and volunteers, past and present, attended the funeral of John Fisher who has sadly died aged 87. Unless you have been closely involved with the farm at Frettenham, you will probably have never heard of John as he never wanted any recognition.

John was actually the main person behind the scenes to help when I set up Redwings Horse Sanctuary in 1984 and then shared my vision to found Hillside Animal Sanctuary at Hilltop Farm in 1995 to help all animals, particularly often forgotten farm animals.   Without John, neither rescue would have been able to help as many animals as they have.

John gave up the use of his farmland to provide many many rescued animals a safe home and worked tirelessly to help look after them. Even the week before he died, he was out on his tractor, harrowing the ponies’ fields. Although previously, he had mainly been an arable farmer, he also farmed pigs and cows as his father had done before him. Even though he had been brought up to believe this was an acceptable way of life, he often told me that even as a small boy, he never felt right about seeing the animals being loaded up and sent off to slaughter. It wasn’t too many years after I got to know him that he actually became vegan.

Although I was brought up in the countryside, John taught me so much more. over the years. I have lovely memories of when I first met John in 1981, one being my delight when we went to some nearby marshes where I saw the Water Deer living in the reed beds there. In more recent years, it always intrigued him to know that I now have over 40 rescued deer living at home with me and often even indoors while they are recuperating.

Thank you for everything John. Wendy

If you would like to make a donation in John's memory, you may do so here. Hillside are very grateful for any donations received.  You are also very welcome to ring the Sanctuary office on 01603 736200 to make a donation. Thank you.