Starter’s orders for fundraiser to aid horses’ recovery

A FUNDRAISER is to help pay for the recovery of a group of racehorses who escaped and were left with serious injuries.

Organisers hope that the money raised will help the Pastures New charity, which rehomes and retrains horses after they stop racing.

Earlier this month, the Observer reported how seven of the animals escaped through an open gate and ran around Littleborough.

After running for around six miles on hard tarmac, some of them suffered nerve damage, deep lacerations and jarred joints, costing charity founder Jacqui

Taylor thousands in medical bills.

A fundraiser at Littleborough Cricket Club, on Sunday, November 24, (from 11am) has seen dozens of businesses contribute raffle prizes and organisers hope people will show up on the day to contribute.

One of the group, Sarah O’Brien, has volunteered at the charity, which is currently home to a former racehorse of Sir Alex Ferguson, for over four years.

Sarah, 40, said: “Jacqui has not only become an amazing friend but has also been an amazing support to myself through some very hard times in my life over the years. Spending time with the horses and helping the children who come to us over the years is the most rewarding thing I’ve every experienced. Seeing them grow in personality and confidence is a fantastic thing.”

The people of the area have already helped both on the day in trying to catch the racehorses and by donating money - but the charity hopes they can do so again this weekend.

All the horses have now returned to the farm and are still in recovery.

●●Sir Alex Ferguson’s old race horse is one of those who has made its home at the Pastures New charity in Littleborough founded by Jacqui Taylor (inset)