Equine charity celebrates army of 100 volunteers

THE South West’s largest equine charity, the Mare & Foal Sanctuary, is celebrating after recruiting its 100th volunteer.

For the first time in its history the Devon-based charity has reached the 100 milestone, thanks to more people than ever before hearing about its work to rescue abandoned, mistreated and orphaned horses and ponies throughout the region.

Volunteer coordinator, Kerri Luke, said: “We are incredibly lucky to have such invaluable support from an amazing 100 people who share our passion for helping horses and ponies in need.

“We simply couldn’t achieve many of our successes, or rescue and rehome as many horses and ponies, if it wasn’t for the kindness of our loyal volunteers who give their time so generously.

“Our volunteers are dedicated to enriching the lives of our horses and ponies and we are extremely grateful to them. Volunteering provides the sanctuary with a meaningful contribution that money simply can’t buy.”

The sanctuary has five farms across Devon and is home to hundreds of horses and ponies needing daily care.

Kerri added: “There is always something to be done, donations to sort in the charity shops, something to be repaired at the farm, fundraising events going on and of course horses and ponies to be groomed and loved.”

Volunteering can be incredibly rewarding. Not only does it have a positive impact on the charity, but it also provides people with skills, builds confidence and helps people make new friends.

Volunteer Luke Ford, who struggles to work full time following a bicycle accident when he was just 12, helps out at the charity’s warehouse and the Newton Abbot shop.

He said: “It’s great to be working. I would advise anyone like me, who was starting to worry they may never find a job, to look into volunteering for a charity. It’s certainly given me more confidence and the sanctuary staff have been brilliant.”

The charity is still looking for volunteers, especially for help with local events through the summer and at their new farm near Yelverton on Dartmoor.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer for the sanctuary visit the website at www.mareandfoal.org/ ways-to-help/#volunteering or find out more about the work the charity does on Facebook at www.fb.me/ mareandfoal

‘It’s certainly given me more confidence and the sanctuary staff have been brilliant’

LUKE FORD