THE Mare and Foal Sanctuary is delighted to announce the purchase of its fourth farm: Upcott Park near Holsworthy.

The 135-acre site is the Sanctuary’s largest and was visited by staff and patron John Nettles on Wednesday, October 1st. It cost £1.2m, funded entirely by kind donations from its supporters, and will enable the charity to take in a further 90 horses in need.

Like its existing sites in South Devon, Upcott Park will see the Sanctuary rehabilitate and, when possible, rehome the horses in its care. However, the new farm will keep the land’s current character and be run in a more natural way, with the horses living out 24 hours a day. The farm will not be open to the public.

Patron John Nettles was very impressed with the location, saying: “I thoroughly enjoyed my tour and am so pleased the Sanctuary will be able to take in many more horses in need.

“Living in North Devon myself, I know how beautiful this area is and it’s wonderful to think that the Sanctuary is going to do so much good while keep the existing character of the land.

“Well done to all concerned, especially the wonderful supporters who funded this venture.”

Simon Avery, executive director of The Mare and Foal Sanctuary, said he was delighted the charity was expanding and hoped to make a real difference to equine welfare on a wider scale.

He said: “With good transport links to all of the south west as well as having land which was well cared for by the previous tenant, this site is perfect for what we aim to do; helping horses further into Cornwall and nationally.

“To help the land run as naturally as possible, all of the horses will live out 24 hours a day, cared for by six staff we’re set to employ from the local area.

“Of course we could not have made this purchase without the kindness of our supporters, so thank you all so much.

“It’s a very exciting time for us and we’re looking forward to having the site up and running.”

For more information on The Mare and Foal Sanctuary visit www.mareandfoal.org call 01626 355969 or follow us on Facebook and Twitter @themareandfoal