Meet Neddy — a century-old rocking horse about to begin a brand-new adventure, all in support of LOROS.
Neddy has been part of Samantha Cree’s life since childhood. Growing up in Mountsorrel, she and her sister spent hours rocking, singing and playing on him, describing him as “a source of complete enjoyment and escape.” Wanting to see him loved by a new generation, Samantha and her husband, Paddy Cree, recently took Neddy to a local repair group, hoping for a simple freshen-up.
But once experts took a closer look, they realised Neddy was no ordinary toy. Dating back to around 1920–1930, he turned out to be a rare vintage rocking horse — a classic Sportiboy model made by the now-defunct British toy company Lines Bros.
That’s when specialist rocking horse restorer Peter Rix, from Derbyshire, stepped in. Valuing Neddy at around £2,000, Peter generously offered to restore him free of charge, with proceeds from his eventual sale going to LOROS. Over the coming months, Neddy will be carefully brought back to his former glory, being repainted, having its saddle replaced and hair retacked.
Paddy has been a LOROS volunteer since April 2024 as a volunteer driver. He said: "My father was looked after by LOROS when he became ill prior to Christmas 2023 and although his stay was short, it was a huge comfort to the family knowing that he was spending his final days getting the best care possible. Last year, a best friend of mine unfortunately became ill and was given the opportunity to stay with LOROS too.
Neddy would have just collected dust, so if it brings some joy to somebody and helps with LOROS then that's great. They do such a great job around the county."
Watch this space to see more on Neddy's journey!
