SHE may have been almost a month overdue - but one new arrival with some very special Royal connections was certainly worth the wait.

A Suffolk Punch foal has been born at Easton Farm Park, near Wickham Market.

The filly is the offspring of Whitton Poppy, a mare that was given to The Queen by the Suffolk Horse Society for Her Majesty’s Golden Jubilee.

The foal, which is yet to be named, was due on March 10 but was 28 days late.

As a result her mother needed some help from the team on the farm to ensure a safe delivery.

But - as these pictures show - both are now doing well and are out and about for visitors to enjoy.

Fi Siddall, from Easton Farm Park, said: “It was very special because it is the only Suffolk Punch foal we are expecting this year. It’s not too unusual for a Suffolk Punch to be late but we were starting to get a little bit nervous. However she didn’t seem too bothered and we just made sure we kept an eye on her.

“Both mother and foal are doing fine and they’ve been out enjoying the sunshine.

“It’s always a bit nerve-racking foaling someone else’s horse, but especially when it’s someone like The Queen!

“Her Majesty is aware of the foal and is said to be delighted that all went well and that Poppy is doing her bit to maintain this rare and majestic breed.

“We’ve got a few names in mind but we’re not too sure yet. We will run then past the Palace and see if The Queen has any favourites.”

Whitton Poppy was bred by Tom Walne and has been living at Easton Farm Park for the last four years.

The farm is open daily from 10.30am until September 8. Visit www.eastonfarmpark.co.uk for more details.