Ten riders have qualified in the Countryside Challenge and dressage competitions after stiff competition in the regional finals in May.  As well as performing perfectly, the appearance of horses and riders must be perfect too, and twenty one year old Murphy 1’s tail is no longer the lustrous white swishy tail it once was.

So the staff at the Unicorn Centre, based near Middlesbrough, have come up with a plan – a horse-tail extension!  Such a thing does exist, but the only problem is the cost – at £80 it doesn’t come cheap. 

 

Centre Manager Claire Pitt said, “Murphy has been competing at the national championships since 2001 and is always admired for his looks.  He has to look his best again this year so he doesn’t let Gavin down, who always looks so smart.  Six years ago, our pony Biggles had a mane extension supplied by Saks at Stockton which caused a sensation at Hartpury – maybe, just maybe, someone will help us to get a new tail for Murphy and give him back his sense of dignity!”

 

The Unicorn Centre charity has set up a fundraising appeal to find sponsors to fund the finalists, ponies and their support team.  Transport for riders, instructors, volunteer helpers, and of course, the ponies, all need to be found, as well as funding for hotel accommodation, food, riding attire for the competitors, and new tack for the ponies.  Anybody able to help should contact the Centre as soon as possible. So far, one very generous former volunteer has donated £1000, but at least £3000 more is required to get the team to Gloucestershire.

 

For further information on how to help Murphy 1 regain his good looks – and support the Unicorn Centre riders, please call 01642 576222 or www.rdaunicorncentre.co.uk

 

6 July 2012.