By James Wild
WINCHESTER’S mayor has made a visit to a very special mare.
Cllr Jane Rutter has decided to recognise Honey the horse’s special contribution to the community with a mayor’s award.
The 30-year-old Arab-Welsh-cross chestnut is owned by Abigail Withey, founder of Helping Hooves based at the Veteran Horses’ Home in Upper Swanmore.
The mission of the organisation is to help aid people recover from illness, injury or other trauma through interaction with horses but the charity also offers sessions in country crafts and gardening.
Abigail says all her horses deserve awards but Honey is special and said: “She is the most amazing horse, she is the first one people meet. She’s always willing to come and see people.
“She’s a real confidence giver, our most obliging and accommodating horse. She’s like an overgrown dog. She asks for Polo mints by raising her hoof to beg.”
Helping Hooves has ten horses and is hoping to get an 11th.
The organisation sees about 300 clients a year but is hoping to increase the number to 500.
For more information about Helping Hooves call 01962 771441 or email: hello@helpinghoovesuk.org.
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