THE Mare and Foal Sanctuary is holding two volunteer taster days to encourage more people to join its efforts looking after horses in need.

The equine charity is holding the sessions on Wednesday, June 3 and Saturday, June 6 at its Visitor Centre in Littlehempston, near Totnes to coincide with National Volunteers’ Week (June 1 to 7).

From caring for ponies to helping out at the shops, and light gardening work to office duties, there are lots of ways people can help make the Sanctuary the best place it can be.

The public are encouraged to come along and see how they can help, as well as meet the wonderful horses and ponies who would benefit from their hard work.

Event organiser and office manager Cheryl Howard said: “There are more horses than ever in need of the Sanctuary’s help and we are desperately looking for more volunteers in all aspects of what we do.

“It often surprises people that we don’t just need volunteers for the hands-on work with horses. Currently we are looking for people who can offer their time either helping in our charity shops or offices, organising collection boxes, meeting and greeting at our Visitor Centre, helping in our tack shop and café, carrying out odd jobs such as light gardening or, of course, helping in the stables.

“But if you think you can use any of your skills with us, I’m sure we can find the perfect role for you.

“The simple fact is that we wouldn’t be here without our volunteers and any time they give, even a couple of hours a week, is truly invaluable. The only restriction is that you have to be over 18.

“Our staff and volunteers pull together to look after these wonderful equines and it really is a very rewarding feeling.

“If you can offer your time in anyway at all, we’d love to hear from you, so please come along on June 3 or 6. No booking is necessary, just turn up.”

For more information or to apply to volunteer, visit www.mareandfoal.org/volunteering call 01626 355969 or email office@mareandfoal.org