The Mare and Foal Sanctuary in Devon can purchase a new horsebox thanks to kind donations from its supporters.
Earlier this year, the sanctuary launched a crowdfunding campaign with the aim of raising £35,000 to enable them to purchase a new horsebox to help transport horses and ponies who have been abandoned, neglected or abused.
Within a few weeks they had raised over £20,000, thanks in part to a £10,000 donation from a major donor.
Sue and Keith Hollings from Totnes then heard about the appeal and decided to cover the outstanding £15,000.
‘We dropped everything’
Sue and Keith Hollings helped fund a new horsebox
“Keith and I got married about two years ago and we both love animals and support local charities,” said Sue.
“When we read about The Mare and Foal Sanctuary’s appeal for a horsebox, we realised how critical it was to them. I said to Keith, ‘Come on, we can help with that!’
“We dropped everything, drove to our local sanctuary at Coombe Park that day, and made the donation,” continued Sue.
“It was lovely to meet some of the rescued ponies, like Geronimo who only has one eye and little Sir Didymus the abandoned miniature Shetland who, when he isn’t playing in the field, rests his chin on the stable door to watch the world go by.
“He has to be one of my favourites. It’s reassuring to know that horses and ponies like these who have had awful experiences in the past will now be cared for throughout the rest of their lives.
“We were glad to help the sanctuary pay for the horsebox they need to transport them.”
‘A huge difference’
A new horsebox will enable the charity to continue to rescue horses in need and transfer them between its four sites or for veterinary care when needed.
“The whole team is so delighted with the news. We all want to thank everyone who has helped us to reach our goal,” said head of sanctuary care Sally Burton.
“Our current horsebox has served us well but has a few too many miles on the clock and doesn’t always start when we need it to. The new horsebox will make a huge difference.”
