The Blue Cross equine centre in Rolleston-on-Dove welcomed over a thousand supporters to its summer open day on Saturday (28 July), raising an impressive £2,000 for the charity. 

An unexpected spell of bright sunshine allowed visitors to make the most of the outdoor activities and riding displays.  A highlight of the day was the re-enactment of The Blue Cross’s 110-year history, where staff and horses dressed up in war-time costume and even the centre’s resident dog Spud had a part to play.

Charlotte Hughes, Blue Cross deputy centre manager at Rolleston, said: “We were delighted that so many people came along to show their support for The Blue Cross.  Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and the horses loved the attention too!  A big thank you to everyone who made a donation on the day.  We collected £2,000 that will help us continue our work caring for horses and ponies in need.”

The open day was supported by many local businesses who donated some impressive prizes for the prize draw.  Local volunteers were also invaluable, running stalls and attractions including face painting, a bouncy castle and an archery masterclass. 

John Kitchener from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, who attended with three colleagues, said: “The open day has raised local awareness of the site and been a huge success.  The number of people that have come through has been a blessing.  We’ve had lots of kids looking at the fire engine as well as a few adults… big boys and their toys!”

Many people came along with young families and even brought animals of their own.  Daniella Smith who came with her family from Stretton said: “There are lots of horses.  I’ve been stroking them.  And I’ve been on the bouncy castle!”. 

Kathryn Foschtinski who travelled from Rushton near Macklesfield with her dog Ellie added: “The whole day is fabulous – an excellent way to promote The Blue Cross.  Ellie’s really enjoying herself too, there are so many animals around.”

The Blue Cross equine centre at Rolleston rehabilitates and rehomes horses and ponies in need, helping them to fulfil active lives in loving new homes.  Anyone who is interested in rehoming a Blue Cross horse should contact the centre on 0845 260 5505 or drop in at Dovecliff Road, Rolleston-on-Dove, Staffs, DE13 9AU. 

The Blue Cross does not receive government funding so it relies on the support of animal lovers to continue its vital work.  The Rolleston centre runs regular fundraising events that are open to the public, including a dressage competition next Wednesday (8 August).  For more information, please visit the website at www.bluecross.org.uk.

Media contact: Laura Dobson
Direct line: 0207 932 4065
Mobile: 07917132698

Notes to Editors

Images available: all the people quoted above and general images of the day

The Blue Cross would like to thank all the contributors to the open day, including:

Anslow Joinery

Branston Golf Club & Country Club

Bretby Nursery

Burton Albion Football Club

Cineworld

Coors Visitor Centre

Derbyshire Life

Dovecliff Hall Hotel

J F Beale Ltd

Maurice Parker Ltd

Masseys

Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service

Staffordshire Police

Uttoxeter Racecourse

Willford Photographic

The Blue Cross provides practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of small animal and equine adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees.