Top trainer to star at open day

8:20am Saturday 2nd August 2008

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Equine Market Watch is very proud to announce that Richard ‘Max’ Maxwell, one of the UK’s top equestrian behaviourists and trainers, will be demonstrating his unique and magical way with horses as part of a full day, fundraising event to be held at the Shropshire base of the charity at Hinstock.

In support of the charity, Max has offered to come and conduct a two-part demonstration on Saturday, August 9, starting at 10am and continuing into the afternoon. He will be bringing one of his own horses and also working with a local one. This is promising to be a day not to be missed, as Max has not done a demo in this part of the country for several years, so for horse enthusiasts in Shropshire, the Welsh Marches and the West Midlands this is a rare opportunity to see this brilliant horseman at work.

Jill Allsopp, trustee, said: “This once in a lifetime offer from Richard Maxwell to do a demo in aid of the charity has been something that has got us all very excited. People pay a great deal of money to watch his evening demonstrations throughout the year, and we are able to offer a whole day at a fraction of what it would normally cost, and raise much needed funds at the same time.”

In addition to the Richard Maxwell demonstration, the open day will provide a wide range of equine entertainment. This will include ‘Pets Behaving Badly’, the mini Shetland team and a demonstration of ‘equine touch’, an holistic and complementary approach to equine health. There will also be trade stands, catering and a picnic area. Overnight camping is also available. Although the day will be both fun and educational for anyone with an interest in horses, the event has a serious side. Jill is concerned that, with costs rising and everyone feeling the pinch, fundraising may become harder in the future.

“In the current climate we, like lots of other registered charities, are finding it a real struggle to raise the funds we need to keep the sanctuaries going. Not only is it hard to get donations, but all our costs are going up – vets, farriers, dentists, feed suppliers – they have all been affected by rising oil and raw material prices. In some cases we may need to consider whether expensive veterinary treatments are viable; it is always a juggling act to keep sanctuary residents in good health and free from pain or discomfort. Jill adds: “This is an event that will hopefully raise enough money to make the rest of our financial year a bit easier, and mean that we can live up to our motto of ‘We will NOT look away’ whenever we hear about a horse or pony in trouble.”

Adult admission is just £15 with group discounts available, and children under 16 cost £5. Advance tickets are available online from equinemarketwatch.org.uk