Sarah runs The Brighton Marathon

On 9th April 2017 at the ripe old age of 47 I will be attempting my first (probably last) ever marathon. I like a challenge and I get a medal at the end. What could possibly go wrong? Armed with my trusty training programme, a vast array of cat stickers for completed runs, Duran Duran's Greatest Hits Album and a grumble or 8 about the rain/snow/wind/cold/general lack of sunshine, training is well under way, but whichever way I look at it this is a massive challenge for me. Although the white van men are very encouraging shouting out witty and original remarks during my training sessions in Crystal Palace, my biggest motivation on the day is going to be raising money for the animals. Remus Memorial Horse Sanctuary, near Ingatestone in Essex, provides lifetime help and care for horses, ponies, donkeys, goats, sheep, cows and cats, that are victims of physical and mental abuse, be it as a result or ignorance or malicious intent. The animals are their prime concern and are treated with the utmost respect. Animals are never euthanized for reasons of age or infirmity alone. Nothing is spared to give them every chance to thrive into old age. Their ethos is one of providing them with an environment where they are safe and, after a lifetime of doing their best for mankind, or being abused by mankind, that they now have a life built around them giving them all they need and asking nothing of them.

The work at the Sanctuary is often very similar to a hospice situation, giving these animals, most of which are survivors of the most horrendous cruelty at the hands of mankind, the very best of care, allowing the younger ones to get over their abuse and develop into happy adults, or for the older ones to spend their twilight years doing as they wish. Nothing is asked of any of them.

They are fed, watered, cared for and loved. They receive regular veterinary and farrier attention as required, and the benefit of holistic therapies. Many of the animals are very much an older population, with many of the equines being between 30 and 45 years. These old horses are in excellent condition, happy, pain free with a good quality of life, for some of them for the first time in their lives. It takes a lot of hard work, money and effort to keep old and sick animals in such good condition, but this is their stated mission.

Remus Horse Sanctuary is funded totally by public donations and their own fundraising and event activities.

Whatever you can afford to sponsor me will be so gratefully received. All money will go towards the care of the animals, and after so many of their open days being cancelled due to adverse weather conditions last year, Remus are desperate for funds.

Thank you! Sarah X