Exmoor pony charity makes shortlist for a cash windfall
The Moorland Mousie Trust could be in line to receive a big donations boost for 2021, as Athwenna Irons reports
ACHARITY working to promote and protect rare breed Exmoor ponies is calling on supporters to cast their votes and help them secure a financial boost.
The Moorland Mousie Trust, based at the Exmoor Pony Centre in Ashwick near Dulverton, has made it onto the final shortlist to be named as one of Harry Hall’s three charity partners for 2021.
Manufacturers of equestrian clothing and products, Harry Hall have received over 3,000 nominations for the Charity Partners campaign, which will see the winners supported with donations from January 1 for the next 12 months.
Like many charities, the Moorland Mousie Trust has faced a dramatic drop in income as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. In the spring and summer months, it would usually generate around £45,000, mostly from activities and events at the Exmoor Pony Centre.
Liz Hopper, managing director of Harry Hall, explained: “Charities, big and small have been hit hard in 2020. Charitable events have been cancelled, personal fundraising has been interrupted and even visits to charity centres have not been allowed, all due to the pandemic. These setbacks have impacted every UK charity. Added to this, charities are now under even more strain as greater demands are being placed on their help and service.
“As we start to close the door on 2020 and we look forward to what we hope will be a brighter new year in 2021 we ask you, the wonderful equestrian community, to help us choose the Harry Hall charities.”
She added: “Once again the incredible equestrian community has humbled us with their passion for helping others. We are so lucky to be a part of this world.”
The 10 charities going to the public vote are: Bransby Horses, The Horse Trust, World Horse Welfare, Redwings Horse Sanctuary, Riding for the Disabled Association, Blue Cross, Brooke - Action for Working Horses and Donkeys, HAPPA (Horses and Ponies Protection Association), Cleveland Bay Horse Society and the Moorland Mousie Trust.
Anyone joining the Harry Hall One Club, taking out insurance or going shopping, either online or on the Harry Hall Riding App, will trigger a donation.
Charities are now under even more strain as greater demands are placed on their service LIZ HOPPER, HARRY HALL
Every six months, Harry Hall will donate unsold clothing, horse equipment and supplements to the chosen charities. And twice during 2021, the company has pledged to double the donation amount in one calendar month.
Voting opened yesterday and will run until Wednesday, December 23. Votes can be made by visiting the website www.harryhall.com/charity-partnership-donations or via the @harryhallriding Facebook page. The three winners will be announced and notified on Christmas Eve.
For further information about the Moorland Mousie Trust and the work that they do, please visit the website www.moorlandmousietrust.org.uk