IF you received a pound for every time you heard the word Christmas recently, you'd probably have quite the savings pot built up. Yet the festive season isn't for everyone and nor does everyone celebrate Christmas.
December doesn't need to be all tinsel, trees and trifles - it can be the perfect time for a new adventure or focus, or quality time with your horse. We've rounded up a selection of ideas for those hoping to spend the end of the year a little differently...
A time for giving
JUST because you aren't a fan of Christmas doesn't mean you don't care! Give a gift that lasts by offering your equestrian expertise where it's needed most, especially at this time of year.
1 VOLUNTEER FOR AN EQUESTRIAN CHARITY
Charities rely heavily on volunteers, and while help is appreciated and encouraged year-round and not just over Christmas, the festive season can make a nice time to start a new commitment. Are you handy with a camera? Maybe you're a DIY pro and enjoy maintenance, or just enjoy being in the company of horses and don't mind poo-picking. Whatever you have to offer, there could be a role for you.
Leanne Plumtree of Redwings says that volunteering is a great way to support the animals in the charity's care.
"Like most charities, we had to pause our volunteer work during lockdown and are so pleased to be back up and running again.
"We have a variety of different roles available including gardener, photographer and eBay lister.
"We have an incredible team of volunteer guides at Redwings' Anna Sewell House, which had over 500 visitors during Heritage Week in September, with people queuing out of the door. If any of these sound like you, just head to our website to find out more and apply," she says.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Better judges' cover a must to protect the sport's future
A group insurance option has been found to protect the officials showing needs but only if enough sign up
IVF with frozen sperm is a 'milestone' in equine breeding
The first successful use of frozen semen in the technique has been recorded in an American study
Challenging ourselves to be and do better for our horses
The 2024 FEI general assembly heard how we should all challenge ourselves to give horses the best lives possible
Scottish jockeys to benefit from fund's top services
A new centre in Galashiels has been built thanks to a legacy donation
How horse simulators could help encourage people into riding
It is hoped the new model will help break down barriers to the sector for a wide range of people
Many horses' needs aren't met: study finds chance to improve
Researchers say all must ensure horses have space, friends, forage and good experiences
Humble pie
How many ladies does it take to cook a shepherd's pie? It’s a complicated one, says Tessa Waugh, on a quest to find appropriate ovens for the impending hunt auction dinner
I love an underdog
The arrival of the winter mud brings with it a Venetia Williams hat-trick, but the day belongs to a warrior gelding, who never stops trying”
Jumping Jack cracks it
A scopey grey is learning to be quick” anda broodmare makes up for lost time
A star is born
A nine-year-old mare helps put Luxembourg on the map and we celebrate a remarkable grey’s comeback
