THE introduction of Connemara Ponies to Kylemore Abbey in Connemara has brought joy to everyone who works in and visits the estate. None more so than Benedictine nun Sr Karol O’Connell, who joined the Abbey in 1978, and has welcomed the ponies onto the farm with open arms.

“All the nuns really love having them here. First thing in the morning, they look out and make sure they are all there,” Sr Karol told The Irish Field during a visit to the Abbey this week, after their mare Gray Lass and her colt foal had been delivered to Áras an Uachtaráin in the Phoenix Park where they will spend the next four months.