A horse rescue charity has been awarded a grant.
The John Sykes Foundation announced that it has given £1,212.93 to Saving Abandoned Fly-Grazing Equines (SAFE), a volunteer-run charity that rescues and rehabilitates abandoned, abused, and neglected horses.
The grant will be used to purchase mud mats, a vital resource for the horses' welfare in wet and muddy conditions.
The John Sykes Foundation visited SAFE's stables near Swallowfield to meet with founder and chair of trustees, Alison Stratford, and trustee Kirstie Mackie.
SAFE rescues horses from neglectful or dangerous situations, providing care and rehabilitation.
A consistent challenge for the charity is maintaining clean and stable ground in their paddocks, particularly during the wet winter months.
The mud mats, bought with the grant, will help stabilise the ground, reduce mud build-up, and prevent injuries, thereby enhancing the horses’ recovery and quality of life.
John Sykes said: "We are honoured to support SAFE and their incredible work in rescuing and caring for horses in need.
"It’s heart-warming to see how this charity makes a difference, not just to the animals but also to the wider community by raising awareness about horse welfare.
"The mud mats may seem like a small addition, but they will have a big impact on the safety and well-being of these animals."
For more information about the John Sykes Foundation, visit their website.
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