Rescue horses and ponies will be putting their best hooves forward at the 2016 Royal Norfolk Show to compete in brand new showing classes dedicated to rehomed equines and sponsored by charity, World Horse Welfare.
The new ‘rescue’ section of showing classes has been introduced to highlight the work carried out by equine charities in rescuing and rehabilitating horses before finding them new homes where they can reach their full potential. In addition, World Horse Welfare will also host a new ‘Rescue Village’ at the show where visitors can meet a selection of rescue horses and ponies from local charities which are currently looking for new homes.
Each rescue class will be split by the equine’s age and whether they are ridden or in-hand and will be judged based on their performance, condition but also on their story which all entrants are required to submit.
Mark Nicholas, Show Director at the Royal Norfolk Show said:
“We’re delighted to introduce this new focus on rescue horses with World Horse Welfare and really feel it will be yet another highlight to add to the show’s packed programme. The new classes will provide a fantastic showcase for those rescue horses that have been through incredibly tough times, yet thanks to their will to survive and the dedication of welfare charities they are now thriving in new homes and careers.”
World Horse Welfare Deputy Chief Executive, Tony Tyler said:
“We’re pleased to be supporting the Royal Norfolk with these new classes and are delighted that they have identified rescue horses as an additional highlight at the show. Not only does it help raise awareness of rehoming, but also gives those who have rehomed from charities the opportunity to show just how fantastic and rewarding it can be. World Horse Welfare alone has over 1,700 horses and ponies out in loving homes across the country so we’re urging as many people as possible to take part in these classes and put rehoming well and truly in the spotlight at this year’s Royal Norfolk.”
