SANCTUARY OPEN DAY BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER

Devon’s largest horse rescue charity is pulling out all the stops for its upcoming Open Day.
The Mare & Foal Sanctuary event, on Sunday, July 1st, attracts hundreds of people and, this year, the charity has laid on more attractions than ever before.

There will be exciting mounted falconry and side saddle demonstrations, a fun dog show and loads of games and activities for the little ones, from face painting to bouncy castles.

There will also be more than 30 trade and craft stalls, three times more than last year – selling everything from beautiful, unique gifts to homemade sweets and treats.

There will be a stall – Daisy Doodles – for pampered pooches to cool down, with light refreshments and cooling baths, a sensory play area for tiny tots, a snow cone stall, homemade chutneys – even an aromatherapy relaxation zone for weary riders.

And this year the Sanctuary’s patron, actor and national treasure John Nettles, will be there to meet his fans.

The Midsomer Murders and Poldark star said: “I love the Sanctuary’s Open Day. There’s always so much going on and it’s a great way for the charity to show the wonderful things they do for the region’s horses and ponies.

“The Sanctuary is very close to my heart and it’s lovely to be able to help celebrate.”

The Open Day is taking place at the Sanctuary’s Coombe Park Visitor Centre near Totnes and the staff and ponies are busy rehearsing for the event – which is the highlight of the charity’s annual calendar.

Visitor Centre Manager Vanessa Apicella said: “It’s always a lovely day out for the whole family.
“We’ve laid on loads of lovely things for the little ones including face painting and bouncy castles…as well as the chance to meet some of our beautiful – and cheeky – ponies. We can’t wait. And it’s free!”

For further details visit the Sanctuary’s website at www.mareandfoal.org