Sanctuary counting cost of harsh winter (From Brentwood Weekly News)

Sanctuary counting cost of harsh winter

8:00am Sunday 10th March 2013 in News

THE founder of Remus Memorial Horse Sanctuary is calling for help and a better approach to animal welfare after a bad winter.

Sue Burton, who runs the sanctuary, based at Little Farm, near Ingatestone, has said the forced cancellations of open days at the site due to poor weather has left a deficit of £20,000.

This has come during a winter period where volunteers from the charity have been called out between ten to 15 times a day over welfare issues reported by the public regarding horses.

With an annual running cost of £300,000, the founder of the sanctuary which looks after neglected horses, including ones which have died, said they are beginning to struggle with demand and money.

Ms Burton said: “With the financial repercussions of last season’s event being cancelled, the weather this winter causing us to have to buy in more food and bedding and the sheer volume of calls the Sanctuary is struggling to stay on top of everything, especially financially.

“We’re also trying to get out to feed horses and ponies where needed.

“We’re hoping to set up a winter feed time and are looking for volunteers who can help feed the many horses that are left uncared for.”

She has also called for authorities such as Essex Police to provide more help when having to deal with call-outs.

Looking ahead, Ms Burton said the sanctuary will be contacting MPs from Essex, the police and Defra about putting together a strategy to help tackle animal welfare issues in the county.

For more information about the work of the sanctuary which formed in 1983, to make a donation or become a volunteer, call 01277 356191 or e-mail remusoffice @aol.com