The Mare and Foal Sanctuary is delighted to announce that national treasure John Nettles has agreed to be its patron.

The charity made the announcement when the Midsomer Murders star and his wife, Cathy, came to visit the Sanctuary’s sites in Newton Abbot and Totnes.

John said how impressed he was with the work undertaken by the charity as he was shown around its rehabilitation and retirement yards and Visitor Centre.

The link marks the start of an exciting relationship which will see the star publically endorse the charity’s work rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming horses in need.

John said: “I’m very proud to be the patron of this wonderful charity – there are so many beautiful ponies here that if we had the room, my wife and I would take all of them home.

“I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the work they do and how much care and attention goes into looking after these horses.

“I’m honoured to be undertaking this role and I look forward to helping The Mare and Foal Sanctuary in any way I can.”

John and Cathy have first-hand experience of the charity’s work, having cared for its loan ponies, Pan and Avalon, for the past three years.

Chair of trustees Nigel Brown explains how this was one of many factors which made him the perfect candidate for patron.

“Our charity has grown significantly in the past few years,” he said. “And the board agreed that having a patron would further boost its profile.

“When looking at potential candidates, John’s name shone out as the ideal choice as he’s familiar with our work and well-loved all over the country.

"He and Cathy were a real pleasure to host and we were happy to see how much they enjoyed their time here.

"We hope this is the start of a long relationship and we look forward to welcoming them both back here in the near future."