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The Norfolk
Natural Horse Group (now
The
Norfolk Horse Training and Equitation Club)
successfully launched a 'Bit
Amnesty Campaign' in Norfolk on behalf of The Gambia Horse and Donkey
Trust; collected were:
-
12 - 15
bags of donated bridles and Numnahs, etc.
-
more than
60 bits!
-
£73.50 in
our raffle and £40 cash donations = £113.50 in total
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a full set of
driving harness!
The
main thrust of the campaign, which was launched on the 28th
November, is to get Norfolk Horse owners to hand in
their unused and unwanted 4" and 4.5" bits, etc, to their local
tack shop. The NNHG will then collect the donated items on a regular
basis and deliver the tack to the UK charity base. The equipment will then be
transported to the Gambia.
Norfolk tack shops supporting the appeal will
provide a 'Bits-n-Pieces Amnesty Bin', where horse owners can leave their
donations of unwanted small sized bits, headcollars, bridles and
boots. The appeal runs from the beginning of December through to end of February.
If the pilot
campaign in Norfolk is a success, then the NNHG will launch a National
Campaign in 2005.
Why bits?
Many of the Gambian horses and donkeys suffer
terrible and horrific injury and life long suffering through ill-fitting
and cruel bits; many animals are driven in plain wire! The NNHG 'Norfolk Bit
Amnesty Appeal' proves that a "Little bit -
makes a big difference!"
Why the Gambia Horse and Donkey Trust?
We
believe that this organisation, which is run by volunteers, is a truly
sustainable charity that supports not just a whole community but also Gambian
conservation, with its links to the Chimpanzee
Rehabilitation Trust. Importantly, it also works to reduce poverty and ill
health for Gambian children and their families with the Alexander Edwards
Trust who are currently building a desperately needed health clinic.
The Alexander Edwards Trust has also assisted over 200 children through an education programme.
The Gambia Horse and Donkey Trust is committed to improve the welfare and treatment of all
equines, through education, veterinary and farriery care.
Quotes
Johanna Macarthur of NNHG comments:
"This charity presents not just an opportunity to help horses
but also starving families with its health and education programmes -
the amnesty appeal provides the opportunity for every horse owner to do
their bit!"
"We are delighted to play a part in the Gambia Appeal and hope that
lots of our customers will donate equipment - we have a huge 'Bit Bin'
ready!"
Contact
Johanna Macarthur of NNHG, North Walsham Saddlery
jo-macarthur@tiscali.co.uk
tel: 01263 838052 tel/fax 01263 734422
Pictures and videos available
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