'˜Real life' unicorn business helps Rebekah's recovery from illness

Rebekah Spackman, 31, from Morton, suffers from Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a group of rare genetic conditions that affect connective tissues supporting the skin, bones, blood vessels and other organs and tissues.

After being diagnosed, Rebekah was deemed unfit for work and was forced to resign from her full time job. However, she still wanted to be a part of her community and use her equine knowledge in a positive way. With help from the Prince’s Trust, Rebekah began her own business, Ashmore Antics, providing miniature horses for events such as parties, weddings, funerals and corporate events.

Rebekah’s team includes five miniature horses, all of which are also available as their ‘unicorn’ counterparts.

She has always had a passion for horses, having worked in the equine industry since she was 13. Rebekah also works with teachers to promote holistic learning in schools.

Rebekah found that caring for the horses helps her cope with her illness.

She said: “They’re a brilliant motivation because I can’t ignore them. When I’m in pain or feeling down, I still have that routine and have to keep going for them.”

Dancer, a small white horse who makes a very popular ‘unicorn’, has a selection of different coloured horns and has their mane and tail sprayed different colours for children’s parties, much to the youngsters’ delight.

Rebekah said: “You never, ever get tired of seeing their faces.”