Next month, HorseWorld, a renowned horse rescue centre in Whitchurch near Bristol, will open its gates for its much-anticipated annual Open Day on Saturday, August 9. Set across a sprawling 180-acre sanctuary, the event offers a unique opportunity to witness the incredible rehabilitation journeys of horses, ponies, and donkeys rescued from neglect and hardship.
Home to around 100 equines, HorseWorld cares for animals that arrive in desperate need—abandoned mares, malnourished ponies, and orphaned foals requiring urgent medical attention. Just last month, a dramatic multi-agency rescue brought a week-old foal and her mother to safety from dangerous common land in Wales. The fragile foal, barely able to stand, is now receiving critical care thanks to swift intervention.
Sarah Hollister, Head of Equine Welfare, shared, “It’s heartbreaking to see any animal in distress, especially a mare with such a young foal. We’re grateful for the quick action that has given them a second chance.”
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Visitors can enjoy a rich programme of family-friendly activities including inspiring talks, live demonstrations, hobby horse races, and equine-themed crafts. Animal sponsors will have the special opportunity to meet their sponsored horses, while newcomers can sign up to support and follow the ongoing recovery stories.
With rescue cases rising, HorseWorld’s CEO Jo Coombs emphasises the event’s vital importance: “Each ticket sold enables us to save more lives. We hope the community will come together to meet these incredible animals and see the impact of their support firsthand.”
Attracting around 2,000 visitors annually, this Open Day is expected to be HorseWorld’s biggest fundraiser yet—a celebration of resilience, compassion, and hope for equines in need.