Three gentle giants have joined the ranks of a south Norfolk horse sanctuary, which is already full to capacity.

Redwings Horse Sanctuary at Hapton has welcomed three Shire horses following the closure of a rare breeds country park.

The trio – Fusilier, Duchess and Major – were offered a place at the centre after their former home was forced to close due to lack of funding.

Twelve-year-old Fusilier stands at an impressive 18.2hh whilst three-year-old Major and Duchess, aged 19, are not far behind in size.

Emma Lacey, Redwings Sanctuary farms manager said: 'The group have always been together, so to separate them at that point in their lives was not an option. However, to find a private home willing to accept three such demanding horses was virtually impossible in this current climate.'

'We are currently at capacity at the sanctuary, with only exceptional cases being considered. These three horses are just that – exceptional.'

'After settling in at our Norfolk HQ, it is hoped they will be able to move to one of our four visitor centres, where our supporters will be able to meet and greet these magnificent horses for themselves.'

The industrial revolution of the 19th century and the introduction of railways saw Shire horse numbers plummet as they were replaced by machinery.

Redwings has visitor centres at Caldecott Hall, near Great Yarmouth, Oxhill in Warwickshire, Harlow in Essex and will be opening a new centre in Aylsham in North Norfolk in 2012 .

Visit www.redwings.co.uk/visiting or telephone 0870 040 0033 for more information.