A virtual open day is set for Penny Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Blackpool

An annual open day at World Horse Welfare’s Penny Farm Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Blackpool is set to go ahead virtually this weekend as the centre remains closed to the public.
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Instead of opening its doors, visitors will be able to go on Facebook to view the horse rescue site on Preston New Road, which normally attracts more than 2,500 people to its annual September event. Events, interactive pieces and pre-recorded video clips are planned throughout the day.

Zoe Clifford, Centre Promotions Officer at Penny Farm said: “Despite currently being closed to the public due to Covid-19, we are determined not to miss out on the fun of this annual favourite in our summer programme so, on Saturday, September 12, we are running our Open Day virtually on Facebook and everyone is invited.

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“There will be a virtual tour of the yard, giving you the chance to meet some of the new ponies, and you will also be able to watch some of our grooms working ponies at various stages of their rehabilitation.

Penny Farm Rescue Centre in BlackpoolPenny Farm Rescue Centre in Blackpool
Penny Farm Rescue Centre in Blackpool

"Competitions will run, and staff will take part – socially distanced, of course – in some of the favourite Pony Agility Races. The grooms’ team challenge is hotly contested with last year’s winning team ‘The Penny Farm Knights’ determined to retain the winning trophy although the ‘Penny Farm Princesses’ have their own ideas.”

A new feature, Blast from the Past, will showcase some of the highlights from previous Open Days and the team at Penny Farm are hoping to welcome other favourites, such as the Dog Agility Demonstrations, on the day as well.

Penny Farm is keen that old and new visitors can find out what has been going on behind closed doors at the farm since lockdown. Horses and ponies are still being rescued and cared for on-site and the open is an important event to showcase the work of the charity and an important fundraising event.

The event starts at 11am, finishing at 3.30pm, and anyone on Facebook can join in by visiting Penny Farm’s page.