Neddy Noel 2023 Success

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On the last Sunday of November, we hosted our annual Neddy Noel event, which saw our sanctuary turn into a fort of festive cheer. Our visitor areas came to life for one last time before winter preparations and we were incredibly warmed by the brilliant turnout. Thanks to the support of our wonderful team, volunteers and visitors, we raised vital funds which will go towards the care of our retired working horses and rescues.

Despite the clouds that day, our Home of Rest for Horses was truly lit up… not only by the decorations and activities, but by the incredible morale felt by all. The afternoon was accompanied by the sounds of Aylesbury Uke Jam Group, who brought the atmosphere along with them as they played Christmas songs under the Archway.

As our guests ventured through the Archway, they were greeted by some of our residents who made a special appearance for the day, including of course one of our sponsor superstars, Fred, and a newer arrival of ours, Rubin, who absolutely loved all of the fuss! Our museum turned into a special Christmas Crafts room for the day, and families left with all sorts of festive creations.

Santa’s Grotto was illuminated by the fairy light pathway, leading towards the big man himself. The Grotto was very specially decorated this year, with thanks to the wonderful Haven Holidays who made Santa’s welcome a very warm one! The never-shortening queue highlighted the children’s excitement to meet Santa and they were each given a goody bag full of Horse Trust Christmas treats upon leaving.

Claire’s rug and gift shop was also back in business, selling all sorts of horsey goods and crafts… as was our Black Beauty Tea Room and, of course, Sefton’s Barn, all full of scrumptious snacks, refreshments and Christmas gift stalls to browse through.

The event finished beautifully with our horse parade, where guests waved off our lovely residents as Horse Trust’s CEO, Jeanette, fondly told the stories of their lives before heading back to their pastures. Our resident reindeer, also known as Teddy, followed suit after collecting Santa from the grotto and delivering him to his next destination.

We would like to extend a very big thank you to all our visitors who came in support of our Christmas fundraising event. It was a fantastic day full of festivities and Christmas cheer. A big thank you also goes out to our wonderful volunteers who helped make this day happen and of course Santa, his elves and adorable reindeer (Teddy!) pulling his sleigh.

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