An “incredibly patient and faithful” pony, that had been used to give rides to disabled children, has died, aged eight.

Samson, of Park Lane Stables, in Teddington, was used as part of the Riding for the Disabled association, as well as at school fetes and fairs.

He died on Saturday after developing colic, despite the efforts of staff at Lip Hook Equine Hospital.

Park Lane Stables owner Natalie O’Rourke said Samson was an incredibly patient and faithful pony, and the loss will leave a hole in many people’s lives.

She said: “It is just devastating for all of us.

“He was the most patient pony you could possibly imagine.

“I really couldn’t say a bad word about him.”

Ponies can live for up to 40 years, and Ms O’Rourke said it was tragic Samson had died so young.

On October 11, there will be a memorial service held at Twickenham’s All Hallows Church, where Samson was once blessed by a minister.

Ms O’Rourke said: “We think it will really help the children cope with it, as for a lot of them it will be their first experience with loss.”