Ditchling rescue horses move to new home near Henfield

Equine Gentling rehabilitates rescue horses and is open for anyone to visit.

The centre also works with young people with social, emotional, mental health and learning difficulties using equine therapy.

Last month, it launched an urgent appeal for land as its land in Ditchling would not have been able to sustain the herd through the winter months.

And this week it was delighted to announce it has moved into a 60-acre patch of the South Downs near Henfield.

Founder Dan Corbin said: “The new land has been donated by Sandra at Truleigh Manor Farm and the old land that has been amazing all summer was donated by Conrad and Hannah in Ditchling.

“This new land means the herd can be sustained throughout the winter alongside the existing sheep and cows, the perfect balance for land biodiversity.

“The herd are now successfully settled in their new home and are looking forward to welcoming more families and individuals into their community herd.”

This summer has been far from ordinary for Equine Gentling and it has sadly not been able to attend festivals, parties, street entertainment, fairs and events in Sussex amid Covid-19. But it has been working hard to bring back the smiles of the people and families it supports.

Dan said: “Like all community projects we’ve had to adapt quickly. An impromptu Pride Parade Pony Walk complete with flags and music brought out technicolour smiles from the young people leading the horses through the village of Ditchling.

“There were several fun filled – albeit socially distanced – open days where lots of new families and members joined this community herd.

“A sponsored pony walk was quickly changed to four walks to adhere to the rule of six and the families who trekked the ponies up and down the South Downs raised an incredible £1982!”

Equine Gentling would love to speak to anyone who would like to visit and experience first hand the benefits of equine healing.