THE Mare and Foal Sanctuary’s Upcott Park, based near Holsworthy, is delighted to share its events schedule for 2022, including an open day on Saturday, September 17. 

This year, the charity is able to offer even more opportunities for people to come and visit their rescued horses and ponies and find out why the work they do matters. 

COVID restrictions over the last two years have meant the sanctuary hasn’t been able to invite as many people to its peaceful sanctuaries as previous years. Starting in March 2022 the charity will be regularly opening its doors for people to meet horses and ponies face to face. It will also be a chance to talk to knowledgeable staff and see first-hand what it takes to run the Mare and Foal Sanctuary. There will be a range of different ways to join in from traditional open days to private tours. All visits to the sanctuary need to be booked ahead, but the team is keen to see as many people as possible when the doors are open. 

Open day

Enjoy a behind-the-scenes guided tour of their peaceful sanctuaries. Connect with the rescued horses and ponies, hear their back stories and meet the knowledgeable grooms who care for them. Hear about life-changing Equine Assisted Learning activities and have a go at creating enrichment toys for the horses and ponies. 

Refreshments will be available to purchase on the day, and people can help raise vital funds by taking part in a hamper raffle, purchasing items from the pop-up shop or even adopting a pony after meeting them in person. Booking in advance is essential as numbers are limited. Visit www.mareandfoal.org/events for more details. 

Arranged group visits 

A spokesperson said: “Do you have an activity group that would like to come and learn about our work whilst spending time with our horses and ponies? From scouts and guides to lunch clubs and photography groups we’d love to hear from you.” 

The sanctuary can also arrange special visits for groups that are tailored to the needs of the group. Staff can share their extensive knowledge whilst a group interacts with the horses and ponies and takes part in activities. Learn what it takes to take care of all the rescued equines and find out about their individual back stories.  

Personalised tours

Meet the horses and ponies on a private tour. Learn about what the sanctuary does and enjoy getting to know the rescued equines at the peaceful Upcott sanctuary. People will be able to see first-hand just how necessary the work is when they learn about the horses and ponies from the knowledgeable staff. Each session lasts up to two hours and is completely free of charge. Tours take place on set days.  

Visit www.mareandfoal.org/visit-us for more details.