Giant Jumble Sales

We've stopped calling them table sales; they're now giant jumble sales and we are running them roughly once a month in the Bourne Hall in Hastings . We used to hire out other tables but have not bothered with that as we have so much gear to clear that we fill the hall easily.

Our friend, Wendy who runs “Feline Friends” charity and her sister Norma and helpers also come in with their stall. Between us we raise about £160 in under 3 hours plus it clears the decks of bric-a-brac that we have difficulty storing.

Wendy of “Feline Friends” with helpers

These sales would not be possible without those that come to help with the sorting and selling. A big “thank you” to you wonderful supporters. As always fund-raising depends on the generosity of those that give of their time.

Dinty ,left, running the Jumble sale

The next jumble sale is on the 16 th April, 10.30-1pm

Wendy, Truda, Angela & Dinty jumble sellers

Goodbyes

It's always traumatic saying goodbye to much loved members of our equine family. How we wish that when the end comes they could just lie down peacefully and pass away. Sadly this is very rare and in ‘04/'05 we have had to make the final decision for Carty, Rosette, Juno and Scoobydo. These wonderful old horses were all in their late twenties/mid thirties and had given their loanees, carers and us so much joy over the years. Carty and Scoobydo died in the field where they had lived many years thanks to the kindness and generosity of the landowners, Dominic and Sharon.

Juno also died in her field where she had enjoyed her safe, loving home with Trish who has been very kind taking care of a herd for the Centre for many years.

Rosette, the chocolate Haflinger, served us for many years in the riding school and with our disabled riding group as did Carty. Many of our supporters will remember these wonderful horses and ponies from our Open Days. However much planning one does it is never enough to arrange a perfect parting.

To add to these horses are the three that we sadly lost from our big rescue in the autumn '04. Our “crash team” consisting of Gillian, John, Deborah and Dinty work together very successfully and have been rushed into action every time a horse has been found unable to get up. When a horse is found on the ground, unable to get up it is vital to call the vet immediately and mobilise our crash team. Leaving the horse struggling on the ground will delay possible chances of him being able to stand. Recently several times our crash team were able to help a horse that appeared to be in a hopeless state.

Marvellous Maggie

Maggie, a very old 10hh pony has enjoyed a safe and loving care home for many years with Linda Carse. This brave little pony has battled to keep going through the winter in spite of a lack of teeth and the difficulties of finding feed that she can get enthusiastic about. However, the dedication of her carer and Maggie's amazing inner strength has astounded everyone. Even when she lies down and needs help to get up she carries on as if nothing had happened! Spring is here, Maggie!

Stop Press

“Honi” a beautiful, gentle 26 year old Highland stallion ,that had only been in the Centre for two days, suddenly dropped dead in the yard outside our back door.