Portrait emotion finds his forever home

Christina, one of our volunteers has re-homed Portrait Emotion AKA Buddy.

“I hadn’t planned on getting another horse, but nearly four years after losing my beloved Fen, who was with me for 27 years, I began to realise that it wasn’t just him I missed, but the special connection between human and horse.

Buddy arrived at the Sanctuary in late June 2025, and as a volunteer, I spent time with him, just as I do with all the horses. One day, after Nigel finished exercising Buddy, he remarked, “This one would be perfect for you.” The rest, as they say, is history. By September, I found a yard and became Buddy’s keeper. It has been brilliant; he’s a true star and a contented soul. My happy hacker, he has restored the joy of horse and rider partnership. I feel like myself again, and he will be a delight until I am truly too old to climb aboard. It’s comforting to know that when the time comes, he will return to the safety of The Racehorse Sanctuary and Re-homing Centre.

Latest fundraising efforts

Some of our supporters have also been busy during the winter months raising donations for the Centre.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Badgers Public House at Coultershaw Bridge, Petworth. In December and January, Jules and Simon generously donated the proceeds from their Sunday lunch raffles, and they also held a New Year’s Eve auction for us. The total amount raised was an impressive £723.

Our main fundraising event at plumpton – cancelled

We were deeply sorry for having to cancel our annual fundraising event last November due to insufficient ticket sales. This was very disheartening, especially considering all the hard work put into organising the event by both Plumpton and our team and volunteers here at the Centre. As a charity, we depend entirely on the kindness of our donors, sponsors, and the general public to fund the care and re-homing of the horses we look after. Financially, the winter months pose the greatest challenge of the year.

So, with free wills month fast approaching, we would be grateful if you would consider leaving a legacy in your will, however small, to the Racehorse Sanctuary and Re-homing Centre so that we can continue our valuable work with ex-racehorses.

What is Free Wills Month?

Free Wills Month runs twice a year in the UK, during March and October, offering individuals aged 55 and over the chance to have simple wills written or updated at no cost via participating solicitors. The campaign encourages, but does not require, the inclusion of charitable legacy gifts. Appointments are limited, filled on a first-come, first-served basis, and the offer applies to basic estate planning in selected locations.

If this might be something you would like to consider then take a look at our Free Will Month page for more information. You can also find more information on leaving a gift in your will by downloading our free Will Guide

Free Will Guide

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Dame Jilly Cooper served as a patron of the Racehorse Sanctuary and Rehoming Centre for many years, during which her enthusiasm and genuine care became integral to the heart of the charity.

With horses being a significant part of her life, her involvement was not merely nominal; she enjoyed the tales and progress reports we sent her, responding with warmth and interest. We deeply valued the passion she showed, which left an indelible mark on the Centre and will always be remembered fondly.

The recent announcement of her passing has left us with heavy hearts. Her departure is a tremendous loss, and our heartfelt condolences go out to her family and friends during this difficult time. Her legacy of kindness and passion for equine welfare will remain a testament to her life.

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On Sunday, 31st August, we had the privilege of being invited to David Menuisier’s yard at Coomblands in West Sussex. David, a Grade 1-winning trainer, has achieved victories in the UK, France, Germany, Sweden, and Australia. We brought along our merchandise and informational leaflets, and we were pleased to see approximately 500 visitors.

Attendees enjoyed viewing the beautiful racehorses, a demonstration by the farrier, and an insightful talk by David. We received significant interest, providing us the opportunity to explain the mission of The Racehorse Sanctuary and Rehoming Centre.

Our annual open day

Our open day on 6th September was the most successful to date. Despite a preceding week of rain, the sun shone brightly on the event. Attendance increased, and there were more trade stands than ever before. Doyen (Spider) and Portrait Emotion (Buddy) paraded and both conducted themselves impeccably. Buddy has since been re-homed with Christina, one of our dedicated volunteers.

Chloe and Angelina, who now care for Catalyze (Charlie) and Stake Acclaim (William), traveled from Hertfordshire. Angelina rode Charlie, while Chloe presented William in hand. Their participation followed their recent attendance at the RoR Championships, showcasing our re-homed horses beautifully.

The BBQ was a resounding success, selling out completely (we will ensure more burgers and sausages next year), and the ice cream van was in high demand. Overall, it was a thoroughly enjoyable day for all involved.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of the day.

Plumpton Raceday – 3rd November 2025

We are pleased to announce that our charity fundraising Raceday is confirmed for Monday, November 3rd, 2025, at Plumpton Racecourse in Lewes, East Sussex.

This Raceday serves as our primary fundraising event of the year, uniting a remarkable group of individuals to generate essential support for our charity. Following the success of last two year’s, we are excited to return to Plumpton.

Plumpton Racecourse is a hidden gem in the horse racing world, offering a picturesque rural setting where guests can enjoy lovely food and beverages while experiencing an unforgettable sporting event. The day is designed for everyone, from novices to seasoned racing enthusiasts.

The event will feature seven thrilling races, with one dedicated to our chair, Edmund O’Reilly Hyland, who sadly passed away earlier this year from cancer, alongside crucial fundraising activities. Our charity lunch will take place at the Final Fence Restaurant, situated on the racecourse lawns next to the final fence and last furlong, providing an unparalleled vantage point to enjoy the day’s excitement.

Tickets are priced at £115 per person, which includes a welcome drink upon arrival, a delectable three-course lunch with half a bottle of wine per person, a silent auction, fundraising games, a main auction with exciting lots, and a raffle. Additionally, a tipster will be available to help in making informed bets.

We are also thrilled to announce the presence of our beloved Pete The Feat, who will be located in the Retired Racehorse Stable throughout the day.

Schedule to be confirmed.

To secure your place, please book online here. Alternatively, contact Catherine via email for any help you need.

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This summer, we have been delighted to host a couple of group visits to the Centre. Members from the All for One Racing – David Mennuisier Syndicates joined us on 10th July and Plumpton Racecourse on 29th July 2025.

Guests were welcomed by our Chief Operating Officer and Trustee, Catherine McIlwraith, who shared an insightful overview of the important work we do at Mulsey, including our re-homing programme. Yard Manager, Nigel Dunger, led a guided tour of the facilities, offering guests the chance to meet our resident horses. A highlight was our newest addition, Doyen the Money, affectionately known as Spider, 16.3 hands, 7-year-old dark bay gelding, who is progressing well in his retraining with Nigel. Spider handled the day beautifully, even mingling with visitors. The visit concluded with a trip to the fields and a Q&A session with Nigel, joined by Tinks, our friendly yard cat.

These informative visits underline the vital work our charity does in supporting thoroughbred welfare. A heartfelt thanks to Catherine, Nigel, and all the staff at the Centre for providing such a fantastic and enlightening experience.

RoR accreditation

We are thrilled to announce our official partnership as an affiliate with Retraining of Racehorses (ROR). Like us, this remarkable UK organisation is committed to helping retired racehorses transition into new careers and find loving homes, but on a much larger scale.

Through retraining, re-homing support, and welfare programmes, ROR ensures that ex-racehorses lead dignified and rewarding lives after their racing days are over. By collaborating with ROR, we can rely on their assistance whenever we are unable to accommodate a retired racehorse at our Centre, using their broad network to ensure every thoroughbred than needs one, finds a place.

THE RACEHORSE SANCTUARY ANNUAL OPEN DAY – 6TH SEPTEMBER 2025

The Racehorse Sanctuary and Rehoming Centre’s open day is on 6th of September, so don’t forget to mark your calendar. Everyone is welcome to enjoy a fun-filled day with us. Bring the whole family along to meet our resident horses and chat with our team about the important work we do.

There’s plenty to see and do, with stalls offering ‘horsey stuff’ and tasty food and drinks, including burgers and hotdogs. There is a dog show with novelty, pedigree and mixed breed classes. Entry to the open day is just £5, and children enter for free. If you’d like to reserve a trade stand, please email Catherine McIlwraith for details on pitch availability and pricing.

RACEDAY AT PLUMPTON – 3RD NOVEMBER 2025

We’re thrilled to announce that our charity fundraising Raceday is set for Monday, 3rd November 2025, at Plumpton Racecourse in Lewes, East Sussex.

This Raceday is our major fundraising occasion of the year, gathering together an amazing community to support our charity’s essential work. Following the success of last year’s event, we couldn’t resist returning for third time!

Plumpton, a hidden gem in the horse racing scene, offers a beautiful rural setting where you can indulge in tasty food and drink while enjoying an unforgettable day of racing. It’s an event suitable for everyone, from beginners to seasoned racing enthusiasts. Look out for more information in our next newsletter and on the website.

We will be dedicating one of the afternoon’s races to our wonderful chair, Edmund O’Reilly Hyland, who sadly passed away at the beginning of this year after a long battle with cancer. Ensuring the horses’ well-being was vital to him, and he found comfort in knowing the charity is in good hands and will care for the horses for years to come.

NEW PHOTOGRAPHY

A HUGE ‘thank you’ goes to Emma Hughes for visiting the Centre in June and capturing stunning portraits of our new horses. Her latest photography enriches our already amazing collection that she has created. Emma kindly permits us to use her images for all our marketing, and her invaluable support greatly enhances our brand presence, as her work encapsulates the true essence of the Thoroughbred.

AN UPDATE ON OUR HORSES

Doyen for Money (Spider) Arrived at Mulsey straight from the track on 4^th February 2025, Spider is beautiful 7 years old bay/brown gelding. He has enjoyed a long holiday and is now enjoying a short time in the school and gentle hacks around the fields. We are taking it slowly with his education from being a racehorse to a riding horse.

Catalyze (Charlie) was rehomed on 5^th April. Catalyze has now joined Stake Acclaim in Hertfordshire with Angelina, as her mum Chloe rehomed Stake on 23rd September 2023 after falling in love with him at our open day.

Recently, both Catalyze and Stake qualified for the RoR Championships at Aintree which is taking place on the 19^th to 23^rd August. This five-day event covers all disciplines. Chloe and Angelina will be competing on the Saturday in the showing section. Stake will also be eligible to parade as he won over £100,000 during his racing career. Chloe said “This is a dream come true!” Congratulations to them both and we wish them the best of luck. Also they have kindly offered to join us at our open day with their horses.

Portrait Emotion, or Buddy, returned to Mulsey on 27th June. At 17 years old, this 16.3 chestnut gelding is a wonderfully gentle soul and will make a lovely hack for someone.

Opus 11 was rehomed on 2^nd July 2025, and is now enjoying retirement as a companion in a beautiful home in Hassocks.

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The first month William was allowed to relax, get to know the new yard and just enjoying being a horse. During this time, he had a new saddle fitted, visits from the physio and the vet, who all confirmed he was fit and well and could begin his journey as a riding horse. We started in-hand showing and enjoyed hacks out with other horses. He was petrified of the Shetland on our yard, but with plenty of meets and greets he soon got used to the pony and didn’t get his knickers in a twist every time he walked past. William wasn’t fazed at shows and the judges were astonished at his behaviour, given he was not long off the track.

The following spring, we began our showing season. We received many firsts in ‘Best Turned Out’ and always first or second in ‘in-hand RoR’. These shows with their busy environments didn’t bother him he just took them in his stride. William went on to win the end of year championship for in-hand RoR and reserve champion for Best Turned Out at our local show.

In the summer of 2024, we sadly lost our beloved Dashing-Chief, breaking both William and my heart but we helped each other through it. I know if I had not had William, it would have been the end of my riding career.

In the autumn of 2024, we began our schooling journey taking William to regular pole clinics and completing our first walk and trot dressage test, scoring an impressive 62%. Unfortunately, William never found another friend like Dash, so the only thing that we could do, was to contact the Sanctuary once more, to find William a friend. Luckily, I have a 19-year-old daughter who had also fallen in love with William and was ready to take on her own ex-racehorse.

Fast forward to spring 2025, we have bought home the beloved Charlie, also known as Catalyze.

So what is planned for this year? William is now ready for RoR County in-hand as well as starting the local RoR ridden classes.

The last thing to add to this is that this is a perfect love story, till death do us part.

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Vi had an incredibly successful racing career in Hong Kong, winning £6 million in prize money, as well as holding The Sha Tin racetrack course record for the sprint, had two films made about his racing career for The Hong Kong Jockey Club, was named Hong Kong Horse of the Year in the 1995-1996 season, and had many Group 1 wins including the Stewards Cup. He had a massive fanbase and when he left Hong Kong to retire in 1998, 33,000 fans waved him goodbye from the airport.

He came to our Sanctuary on 30th September 2009 and has thrived (and been the boss!) ever since.

Vi dominated all that goes on in his world here at the Sanctuary, be it organising his pals in the paddock or doing the same with us when in his stable! He was very much his own person and always set his own routine and standards. He was a true gentleman in every way.

He loved his life over the past 16 years here with us. We all shared a special moment with him for his 30th birthday, at our annual open day back in September 2021, where he was presented with a birthday cake and we all sang happy birthday to him!

Mr Vitality, you will be greatly missed, you really were a legend. We will miss you and thank you, it has been an honour to have looked after you.

From Nigel and everyone at The Racehorse Sanctuary.

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Edmund was born in Ireland, where he developed a deep love for horses from a young age.

After moving to London for work, he found joy in racing, which led him to Susanna, the love of his life.

Edmund served as a Trustee for many years and more recently became Chairman, demonstrating incredible generosity and support. He firmly believed in the charity’s mission, often saying that whenever he needed a boost, he would visit the horses, their welcoming faces brought him immense happiness.

Ensuring the horses’ well-being was vital to him, and he found comfort in knowing the charity is in good hands and will care for the horses for years to come.

Edmund died on January 3^rd 2025 after a long battle against cancer. Our deepest sympathy goes to all his family and friends.

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The Racehorse Sanctuary hosted its second charity race day on Monday, November 18th at Plumpton. We were thrilled to see so many loyal supporters and to welcome many new faces.

Lunch at the Final Fence restaurant was excellent, and it offered a fantastic view of the course. Our guests enjoyed tipster Colin Brown’s insights on the race card, and quite a few were lucky enough to collect their winnings after each race.

The “Heads or Tails” game was as entertaining as ever, alongside a raffle and a live auction. Tara kindly took on the role of auctioneer and did a brilliant job.

Pete the Feat, our retired racehorse, was a hit in his stable, graciously meeting many people who remembered him from his racing days.

The event had a wonderful atmosphere, and we’ve received great feedback. All in all, everyone had a fabulous day.

Our horses are looking fantastic, which is especially pleasing as we head into winter. Recently arrived Ollie and Run have settled in nicely and are now retired, set to enjoy the rest of their days with us.

Mouse has been re-homed and is happy with her new keeper, Cailin. They are truly a perfect pair. Cailin is a talented young rider preparing for several outings in 2025.

A big thank you from all at the Racehorse Sanctuary and Rehoming Centre must go to Joanna Wyatt from The ROG for her generous donation of £1,000 on race day.

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Our charity fundraising Raceday is confirmed and we’re delighted to be heading back to Plumpton Racecourse, in Lewes, East Sussex, on Monday, the 18th November 2024.

This Raceday is our main fundraising event of the year, where we bring together a great group of people to raise vital funds for our charity. This will be the second year of hosting this November event, and after the success of last year, we knew we needed to go back!

Plumpton is the hidden gem in the world of horse racing. With a stunning rural backdrop, you can enjoy delicious food and drink whilst having a memorable sporting experience. And it’s for everyone, from novice to racing expert.

This fixture combines seven brilliant races with key fundraising for us. Our charity lunch will be held in the Final Fence Restaurant. This is located on the lawns of the racecourse alongside the final fence and last furlong. It’s the best spot to have a great day, and be right at the heart of the action.

Tickets are £110 per person, which includes a welcome drink on arrival, delicious 3-course lunch and half a bottle of wine per person, a silent auction, fundraising games and a main auction with some exciting lots, plus a raffle. There will also be a tipster to help us hopefully back a few winners!

Our superstar Pete The Feat will also be there! Find him in the Retired Racehorse Stable on the day.

Approximate timings TBC –

Gates Open – 10:30 AM
First Race – 12.30 PM
Last Race – 3.55 PM

Please secure your place by booking online here. Or alternatively email Catherine and she will be happy to help.

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Summer is in full swing, and despite the weather being unpredictable, our residents are thriving on the wonderful lush grass. Here’s the latest news from the Centre!

THE RACEHORSE SANCTUARY ANNUAL OPEN DAY – 14TH SEPTEMBER 2024

The annual open day at the Racehorse Sanctuary and Rehoming Centre this year is on the 14th September so mark your calendar. Everyone is invited to join the fun. Bring the whole family to meet our resident horses and chat with our team about the meaningful work we do. There’s something for everyone, including a variety of stalls selling ‘horsey stuff’ and delicious food and drinks like burgers and hotdogs. Entry is only £5, and children get in free. We still have some trade stand spaces so if you are interested please email Catherine Mcilwriath for more information on pitch availability and prices.

SAVE THE DATE! RACE DAY AT PLUMPTON RACECOURSE, LEWES, EAST SUSSEX – 18TH NOVEMBER 2024

Join us at Plumpton Racecourse in Lewes for our Race day! Known as a hidden gem in horse racing, Plumpton offers a beautiful rural setting where you can savour delicious food and drinks while enjoying an unforgettable sporting experience. Whether you’re new to racing or an expert, there’s something for everyone. Look out for more details coming soon!

RACEHORSE OWNERS ASSOCIATION (ROA) VISIT

On Monday 8th July, members of the Racehorse Owners Association and the Racegoers Club enjoyed a visit to the Racehorse Sanctuary in Pulborough, West Sussex

The group of 25 guests was welcomed by Chief Operating Officer and Trustee, Catherine Mcllwraith, who provided an insightful overview of the invaluable work undertaken at Mulsey, including the re-homing programme. Nigel Dunger, the Yard Manager, gave guests a guided tour of the facility, where they had the opportunity to meet the horses on site. Notable among these were Pet the Feat, thriving in his retirement at 20 years old, and Jardines Lookout, still vibrant at 28 years old.

The visitors were also treated to a ridden demonstration by Sowdrey aka Ollie, a horse that has been successfully rehabilitated and re-trained by the Centre and is now seeking a new home.

The informative morning highlighted the crucial work performed by the charity in supporting thoroughbred welfare.

Sincere thanks go to Catherine, Nigel and all the staff at the Centre for providing a fantastic and enlightening experience. Keep up the excellent work!

The work at The Racehorse Sanctuary & Rehoming Centre is dedicated to helping to safeguard the welfare of all the ex-racehorses into their care so please visit the support us page to see how you could help.

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