Dartmoor horse charity backed by Angela Rippon in new TV campaign

Broadcaster Angela Rippon has appeared in a new national television advert filmed on Dartmoor to support The Mare and Foal Sanctuary.

The advert, running throughout October on ITV, Sky and Channel 4, was recorded at the charity’s Moorland Rescue Facility in Yelverton and shows ponies that have been recently rescued.

Founded in Devon, the Mare and Foal Sanctuary carries out its work across the South West and also works with national welfare organisations

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Ms Rippon, who grew up in Devon, has been a patron of the charity since 2018 and said her lifelong love of horses began as a child watching them on Dartmoor, but she did not start riding until her 30s.

ABOVE - Angela and her horse 'Katie' (Credit: The Mare and Foal Sanctuary)

She spoke warmly about her own horse, Katie, a thoroughbred mare who she said gave her calm and freedom during a busy career in broadcasting. 

“I would come home to Devon, saddle her up and go out onto Dartmoor. No phones, no noise, just the countryside and the ponies,” she said.

Although she no longer rides, Ms Rippon said she still enjoys being around horses and described them as “majestic animals”.

In a short film released alongside the advert, Ms Rippon explained why she supports The Mare and Foal Sanctuary. 

“I love being associated with this charity and with other animal and horse charities worldwide, because I hate the thought of cruelty towards them in any way, shape or form. They are such beautiful creatures. I can't come to grips with and I can't imagine what must be going through someone's head to be cruel, unkind, vicious to them. I just can't see it. So, I support this charity. They're such magnificent animals that I want to do something positive that enables them to live better lives. And that's exactly what The Mare and Foal Sanctuary does.” she said.

The Sanctuary, which has sites in Newton Abbot, Totnes, Yelverton and Holsworthy, currently cares for nearly 600 horses and ponies, many of which were abandoned, neglected or abused. 

The charity also runs equine-assisted programmes to support people’s wellbeing.

Dawn Vincent, the Sanctuary’s Director of Fundraising and Communications, said: “Angela has given her time freely to present our appeal. Her support as our patron helps raise awareness of our rescue and welfare work.”