A record-breaking crowd attended a day of HorseWorld Discovery and Welfare Team demonstrations, hobby horse activities and lots of equine cuddles during an annual Open Day at the charity’s site in Whitchurch, Bristol. The event at HorseWorld, which is normally closed to the public, attracted more than 2,000 people and raised over £13,000 to support the care of the 100 rescued horses, ponies, donkeys and mules living at the sanctuary.
The day offered behind-the-scenes glimpses of the charity’s work, including tours of our 180-acre site, talks and insights from the welfare team, guess the weight of resident mule Tilly and the opportunity to meet the horses on the Sponsorship scheme. There were also demonstrations from Wessex Working Horses who have rehomed one of HorseWorld’s rescued Shire horses, plus a demonstration by Avon Fire and Rescue service of a horse rescue.
Dime the rescued Shire horse. Credit: HorseWorld
“We are so grateful to everyone who came to make the day the huge success,” said Sara Rutherford, event organiser. “We had to cancel last year due to bad weather so we were delighted to be able to welcome so many people this year. We would like to thank all our supporters and volunteers, they are crucial to the continuation of our work here at HorseWorld”
HorseWorld rescue, rehabilitate and rehome horses, ponies and donkeys in need and also run an alternative learning programme where rehabilitated, rescued horses help change the lives of young people who experience, social, emotional and behavioural difficulties.
Anyone wanting to learn more about HorseWorld can find out more here.
Lead image: Visitors meeting the donkeys and Tilly the mule. Credit: HorseWorld
