Recession affects equine charity

The sanctuary does not have enough land to accept any more horses

An equine charity in Devon has said the recession has increased the number of ponies and horses being given up by their owners.

The Mare and Foal Sanctuary at Newton Abbot is looking after 90 horses - from miniature ponies to shire horses.

It is at maximum capacity and is asking for the members of the public to help by giving a home to an unwanted animal.

"People are asking us to take their horses because they can't afford to keep them anymore," a spokeswoman said.

Sian Morris told BBC News the charity was in a difficult position.

Voluntary donations

"It's very hard to turn horses away, but because of the land we can't physically take any more stock," she said.

"What we're now having to do is point people in the direction of other charities who might be able to help.

"We're also keeping details on file, in case we can pair up someone who needs help with someone who's offered to home a horse."

The charity, which has a staff of about 30 plus volunteers, relies totally on voluntary donations for its funding.