The Horse Refuge began in a small way circa 1995, although it has not always been known by that name and at times it has merged with other organisations.  At that time Sara Ross was working with Lord Houghton of Sowerby on various pieces of legislation to improve the situation and welfare of animals - transportation, experimentation, so-called dangerous dogs to name but a few (culminating with the Animal Welfare Act).  During this period Sara and Lord Houghton set up an organisation called the Farm Animal Welfare Council - to ensure conditions were improved for these poor animals. This was followed by the setting up of The Companion Animal Council.  It was at this point we became involved in a few cases and indeed took on 4 malnourished horses, an unwanted and very aggressive Lhasa Apso and a few dogs from puppy farm hell.  
 
Towards the Millennium Sara took some time out to help her friend Carla Lane in her sanctuary and by the time she left there she had too many needy animals - mainly horses - to go back to the day job!
 
For a brief period in 2004 the Horse Refuge was merged with a sanctuary in Essex, under whose charitable umbrella they operated.  This venture was a complete disaster from every angle so the Horse Refuge parted their company and moved to its present home in December 2008.

If you would like to sponsor a horse, send us a donation to help us continue our work either write to the above address, visit the donation page or if you prefer please telephone Sara  01797 270555 . She would be happy to hear from you and arrange a visit.

Please note Sara's email address is This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

VISITORS WELCOME from 11am to 4pm - 7 days a week.

Donations can be made here:

DONATIONS

We'd really appreciate your help!