A NEW specialist barn to help abandoned, neglected, or abused horses with complex needs was officially opened at the end of last month.

Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Devon, Grania Phillips cut the ribbon The Mare and Foal Sanctuary’s Rosemary Kind Barn at Coombe Park near Ipplepen, marking one of the biggest milestones in the equine welfare charity's 38-year history.

The new welfare and education centre, named after the charity’s founder who died in 2022, houses 13 stables for rescued horses and ponies alongside dedicated spaces for specialist care, education and community work.

Faye Winter, the Devon based television personality, influencer and equine welfare advocate
Faye Winter, the Devon based television personality, influencer and equine welfare advocate attended the event and enjoyed learning about the ponies and plans for the site (Mare&Foal Sanctuary)

It replaces the site's former American Barn, which was demolished in 2020 after subsidence left it unfit for purpose, and the temporary stabling used since.

Chief Executive Rhodri Samuel described the new centre as a facility that represents far more than bricks and mortar. It represents hope for the future, resilience, compassion and unwavering commitment to the many horses, ponies and people we serve.

“The Rosemary Kind Barn has been a major investment in the future of our Coombe Park site, one of our four sanctuary sites across Devon,” he said.

“ It provides a safe, modern and purpose-built home for rescued horses and ponies while creating opportunities for learning, wellbeing and community connection.

Mare and Foal Sanctuary Rosemary Kind Barn.Four-legged residents were also in attendance at the opening of the Rosemary Kind Barn
Four-legged residents were also in attendance at the opening of the Rosemary Kind Barn (Mare and Foal Sanctuary)

“Named in honour of our founder, Rosemary Kind, this barn will support generations of horses, ponies and people through offering loving care, trauma-informed rehabilitation, learning and sanctuary. It is a fitting tribute to a remarkable woman whose vision and determination laid the foundations for everything we do today.”

Nearly 100 guests enjoyed afternoon tea at the opening cereony while watching a film montage and presentation charting the barn's construction, a project that took five years from first plans to completion and they were joined by some of the ponies who now live in the new barn.

Ahead of the opening, the Sanctuary received good luck messages from a number of familiar faces, including comedian Josh Widdicombe, broadcaster and patron Angela Rippon, actor and patron John Nettles and dancer Flavia Cacace.

One member of The Mare and Foal Sanctuary team who certainly appeared to be enjoying the occasion in her front row VIP box was 15 year old Irish Draught cross Vogue. She arrived at the Sanctuary in a serious state of neglect in 2019 following a large multi-agency rescue operation. Since her rescue, she has become a valued partner within the education team and one of the charity’s most popular sponsorship horse

Mare and Foal Sanctuary's Rosemary Kind Barn
The Mare and Foal Sanctuary's Rosemary Kind Barn (Mare and Foal Sanctuary)

The opening was also celebrated by renowned broadcaster, writer, and adventurer Ben Fogle.

“It’s wonderful to see The Mare and Foal Sanctuary open the Rosemary Kind Barn, creating a safe and nurturing space for ponies in need,” he said.

“ Places like this do so much more than protect animals. They also remind us of the deep connection between nature, wellbeing and compassion. This new centre will make a real difference, giving vulnerable animals the care they deserve while helping strengthen the bond between people, animals and the natural world.”