Friday 23rd October 2026 marked the retirement of our much-valued Yard Manager, Nigel Dunger. Nigel will be greatly missed by everyone at the Racehorse Sanctuary and Rehoming Centre – and, of course, by the horses!
Over the years, Nigel has been an important part of the Centre, bringing an exceptional knowledge of thoroughbreds, professionalism, kindness and energy to the role. Nothing has ever been too much trouble, and his dedication and care have made a real difference to the horses and the day-to-day running of the yard. We have been incredibly fortunate to have him as part of our team and cannot thank him enough for everything he has done.
We wish Nigel a very happy and well-deserved retirement, with plenty of time to enjoy a new chapter away from the daily demands of the yard. He leaves some very big boots to fill!
As Nigel hangs up his boots, we are delighted to welcome Barry Smith, who is taking the reins as our new Yard Manager.
Barry brings with him a lifelong connection with racing. Born in Canada, where both his parents trained racehorses, he moved to England at 11. By 16, he was already working in racing and had also experienced the thrill of riding in flat races.
His interest in retraining racehorses began when he and his wife took on their first ex-racehorse, who proved to have a real talent for showing. That first experience sparked a passion which has continued to grow. Two of their horses have since competed in the main ring at the RoR Championships at Hickstead. Barry particularly enjoys watching each horse develop, gain confidence and flourish in a new career.
Looking after the horses is, of course, only one part of the Yard Manager’s role. There are tack repairs, farriers, dentists and vets to organise, as well as feed, hay and straw to order. Then there’s the never-ending battle with the mud, not to mention harrowing, rolling, strimming and mowing – the list really does go on!
We are very much looking forward to working with Barry at the Centre as part of the team and wish him every success in his new role.
