Benidorm’s rescue queen
Benidorm is a party capital visited by millions every year and many come specifically for the varied nightlife – there is something for everyone regardless of age. Many of the bars and clubs, especially in the Rincon area offer free entertainment, with boards outside advertising who is on.
You could easily spend a week here and not see the same act twice. Some are exclusive to a particular venue whereas others run around from one place to another and perform two or three times in an evening.
I am sure some probably think what a great life they have, working a few hours in the evening and basically lounging around all day. Perhaps some do and good luck to them, however there is one in particular that I feel warrants a special mention as he does anything but – Colin Brown or as many will know him by his alter ego Miss Coco Channel – Queen of Visual Comedy.
During the day, you will inevitably find him at the stables where he rescues neglected and mistreated horses. He has recently relocated to much larger stables in Murcia, undoubtedly giving him the opportunity and space to take on yet even more!
Miss Coco is the star of the Benidorm Gay Pride parade, held every September, where he attends riding upon the majestic Celeso - one of 5 currently under his care.
To date he has rescued nine, lost two and rehomed one - Apollo to Scotland.
His commitment to improving their lives, away from the neglect they have had to endure is remarkable and he uses his popularity as an entertainer to raise money towards the mammoth stabling fees, feed and vet bills which runs into thousands each month.
He has just now received his official charity number so you may see collection tins at some of the bars where he performs. The hours of work and love he shows to the horses is inspirational and one day his dream is to open his own equine rescue centre. It is truly inspiring to see the love and commitment and he certainly deserves it.
Last week he took on another enormous task having been tagged in a Facebook post about an injured pony that had been abandoned by its owner, tied to a tree with no food or water down in Almeria. He was recovered by the police and taken to the local dog pound – as there was nowhere else, where he remained for nine long days surrounded by barking dogs.
Understandably, in his condition there weren’t any takers, knowing that the only certainty would be massive vet bills. However, step forward Colin and a 6-hour round trip to collect his latest addition – now named Trooper.
An initial vet inspection estimates that he is about 25 years old, weighs only 78kg and has had the fracture in his leg for two or more years. The poor mite struggles to walk as it has set and there is a 75% success rate to operate but obviously there will be risks along the way.
If successful, little Trooper can enjoy some happy years roaming and so for Colin there is no choice what to do, with his heart ruling over his head. The estimated cost to operate is in the region of €5,000 and to give Trooper a chance, Colin Coco is now in serious fundraising mode. Those that are animal lovers will understand.
Even a single euro will help and be greatly appreciated – if you cannot spare anything yourself maybe you can spread the word. Donations can be made via Paypal: helpingcoco@hotmail.com or gofundme.com/cocos-horse-rescue-centre