Stout prescribed for ailing horse

Sammy the shire horse is allowed two stout a day

A horse at a Lincolnshire animal centre has been prescribed a diet of beer to help him on the road to recovery.

Shire horse Sammy, who is 24 years old - the equivalent of a human age of about 60 - has been out of sorts and lethargic due to his advancing years.

A vet has advised Northcote Heavy Horse Centre near Spilsby to give him a daily dose of two bottles of stout.

The deputy manager of the centre, Terena Bolam, said alcohol could act as a perfect "pick-me-up" for horses.

"He's been on a few beers for the past few weeks and he has perked up since then," she said.

The vet told the staff at the centre that Sam is short of vitamins B and C, which are found in oranges and apples, but a daily drink of stout is also a good remedy.

Sam is already on a prescription of steroids for a breathing problem, but otherwise is in good health.

The centre has asked anyone with a good supply of stout to contact them.