Neigh-bourssaddle up for Open Day fun

The rescue centre, a charitable organisation based at Ashburnham, near Battle, which celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2012, holds the annual Open Day to raise funds and this year’s event raised almost £4,000.

The charity safeguards the welfare of all horses and ponies, provides sanctuary to animals who have been mistreated and is a valuable resource to horse lovers everywhere.

Blessed with fine weather the Open Day was officially opened by one of the charity’s Patrons, Brett MacLean.

Paraequestrian rider Emily Lawes then delighted onlookers by performing a display in the arena with her horse, ‘Drizzle’ and youngsters had the opportunity to meet both horse and rider.

Tony Smith, Chairman of Trustees for the Brownbread Horse Rescue Centre said it had been a great day thanks to those who took part and those who supported the event.

He said: “The atmosphere of the whole event was enhanced by the Heathfield Silver Band which played a variety of popular tunes.

“Sound engineer, Gary Steele from Hastings, organised the PA system and the Bexhill Lions produced the delicious Barbeque. “Professional archer, Adrian Caddy, had a queue of people eager to try their hand shooting at targets, balloons and 3-D dinosaur models.

“Pony rides, proved popular with youngsters and Katie Nunn toured the show leading the Shetland pony, Honey.

“In the tack shop Mandy Gardner and Lee Honeyball raised over £500 selling mainly second-hand riding equipment.

“On stage youngsters of the Cherry Dance group performed and The Iceni Belly Dancers gave two performances in dazzling green and purple dresses.

“The Hunters Moon Morris from Eastbourne, together with their musicians, attracted a huge crowd and were followed by Hannah’s Cats all-girl Morris dancers accompanied by Keith Leech on the accordion.”

The dog show, with classes in both pedigree and novelty, had a good turnout and, later, the class winners gathered in the main arena where the champions were selected by the judges, Hayley Skippings and Julie Honeyball together with Brett MacLean’s opinion. Best in Show was judged to be the Alsatian.

Many stalls offered a variety of entertainment including, Birds of Prey, Lions Club plate smashing stall, Hanging Gardens, Face Painting and Classic cars on display included a mini Bond three-wheeler and several MGB’s. A tombola and raffle included a first prize of a cross-Channel return trip donated by P&O Ferries. Refreshments and cakes were served.

Tony added: “Nearly £4,000 was raised on the day and the Trustees convey their sincere thanks to everyone that contributed to the successful event.”

Visit: www.brownread-horse-rescue.co.uk