A HORSE-mad Dorset youngster has vowed to raise as much money as she can for an equine charity after a visit to its Somerset home.
Last year, young rider Maisie raised more than £1,000 for World Horse Welfare (WHW) when she walked 10 miles from her home and climbed a 49-meter-high tower.
Now, the 10-year-old plans to raise as much money for the cause as she can in 2025.
Her commitment to the cause began last summer following a visit to the charity’s Somerset Rescue and Rehoming Centre, Glenda Spooner Farm, near Somerton.
“I left feeling inspired and wanted to help,” she said.
A month later, two horses she once rode sadly passed away and so she decided to do a sponsored hike in their memory to raise money.
“My friends and family thought I was a bit crazy,” Maisie went on. “And some did not think I would do it at first. They had a point, as I’m not much of a walker and will be the first to start moaning that my legs hurt halfway through a one-mile walk.
“I am also scared of heights and the top of the tower was a long way from the ground.
“But, on August 10, 2024, I achieved my goal and even though my legs hurt for days after, it was worth it.”
With a target of £50, Maisie was impressed by the support she received amounting to more than £600.
Spurred on by her success, she made another £300 with a tack sale and topped her new target of £1,000 at the end of 2024 with the sale of handmade Christmas wreaths.
“I am so grateful to everyone who donated and supported me,” she added. “I had a lot of fun, faced new challenges and learned a lot, like if you want something bad enough you have to make it happen.
“If you have a passion or you have something that is important to you why not find out how you can get involved with volunteering or fundraising – together we can make a difference.”
Now, Maisie has made it her New Year’s resolution to continue fundraising with World Horse Welfare in 2025 and has launched a Youtube channel, Maisie’s Mane Mission, to record her efforts.
WHW’s south west regional fundraiser, Naomi Jones, said: “We think Maisie is just amazing and love how many fundraising ideas she’s managed to think of already.
“We wish her lots of luck for her future efforts, and we are really looking forward to supporting her with her 2025 plans.
“We are extremely grateful to Maisie and everyone who supports our work to help horses who need it most, both in the UK and further afield.”
For more about fundraising for World Horse Welfare, visit worldhorsewelfare.org/support-us.
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