An Angus equine charity is appealing to the public to help it plug a £100,000 funding gap.
The Mountains Animal Sanctuary, based in 260 acres of Glenogil, is saddling up to celebrate its 30th anniversary this summer but its staff say there is a desperate need for public help and donations if the charity is to last for another year, let alone another 30.
Pam Taylor, general manager at Mountains, said: ”It’s been quite a year for us. Last summer we launched the Dayzee Appeal in order to raise £300,000 and this year we need to find an additional £100,000 in order to continue caring for our much-loved residents.
”Visitors and supporters have done a wonderful job in helping raise much-needed funds, and at a time when many people are feeling the pinch due to the economic uncertainty. It’s extremely touching to know they care about us and want to help as much as they can.”
The Mountains Sanctuary was founded in 1982 by Alan Fraser. Originally sited in Kent, the sanctuary relocated to Milton of Ogil in 1991 with 110 animals.
Mr Fraser died in October 2010, leaving the sanctuary in the hands of a dedicated team of staff and fellow trustees, Ian Hunter, John Rutter and Roy Alexander.
The centre offers food, shelter, medical treatment and care for 140 equines, many of which have been rescued from cruelty, neglect or ignorance.
Where possible the animals are re-homed but many of the animals have to stay at the sanctuary for the rest of their lives.
The organisation relies solely on the generosity of the public through donations and volunteering.
Last year vet bills totalled £20,000, food bills were £15,000 and farrier care cost £20,000.
Annual running costs amount to £400,000 and with £100,000 funded via a trust set up by the sanctuary’s founder, Mr Fraser, it relies on support from donations, sponsorships, legacies and the generosity of individuals.
As Scotland’s largest equine centre, retired race horses, rare breeds, former cart-horses and retired riding horses for the disabled have all been cared for by Mountains Animal Sanctuary over the last 30 years.
Pam added: ”We are delighted to have reached this milestone. Thirty years of back-breaking work and a lot of blood, sweat and tears is no mean feat and we will plan to be here for another 30.”
To help raise funds, the sanctuary is hosting its 30th anniversary extravaganza on August 5.
A range of activities and entertainment will be available at the centre from 11am, including a display from trick riding and equestrian stunt team, Riders of The Storm as well as Raptor World, birds of prey, Angus Dog Activity Club and a parade of Mountains’ animals.
Other family activities will be on offer including bouncy castles, trade stands, artists and demos of rural skills.Find out more at www.mountainsanimalsanctuary.org.uk