Summer Fete set to be family fun day out

The unique life-saving model equine will be on-hand to greet visitors and pose for photos at our free-entry Summer Fete in Totnes on Sunday the 25th of August. 

Max, who’s designed to train emergency first responders in critical equine rescue situations, has recently appeared on TV, radio and local papers and as his fame spreads there’s growing interest from local organisations across the South West for developing training partnerships. 

Generous supporters donated more than nine thousand pounds for the special horse mannequin which has already helped train Sanctuary staff and local vets in equine extraction techniques. We are working in partnership with The British Animal Rescue & Trauma Care Association (BARTA) to offer a series of collaborative training days sharing best practice with rescue teams. 

Alongside a selfie with Max, visitors to the Summer Fete are invited to meet some of our best-loved horses and ponies. Miniature Shetland Sir Didymus and his best friend, piebald cob Ludo were both found abandoned and starving on wasteland eight years ago. Ludo was covered in engine oil before the pair were rescued by the Sanctuary and nursed back to health. Skewbald pony Geronimo had untreated medical conditions and needed one of his eyes removed when he came to the Sanctuary in 2018. His trainer Georgie taught him a basic ‘dance’ move to overcome his fear of narrow doorways. And beautiful grey mare Vogue was given sanctuary when she and her foal-at-foot Vagabond were rescued from dangerous conditions at a South Devon stud farm. Visitors will also get the chance to find out about our Sanctuary’s Rehoming Scheme and Equine Assisted Services, building trust between rescued ponies and young people who may face difficult challenges in their own lives. 

With equine demonstrations, local stallholders, games and activities, live music and a range of fantastic local food and drinks, our Summer Fete takes place at Coombe Park Equestrian and Education Centre, near Totnes, TQ9 6LW, on Sunday 25th August, 11am to 4pm.  

We’re keen to warmly thank everyone who supports our work to rescue and rehabilitate horses and ponies in desperate need, so admission to the event is free. Visitors can book tickets at: https://www.mareandfoal.org/event/summer-fete/