Charity auction for ex-racehorses

Nominations to top stallions, theatre tickets and visits to the gallops are likely to be among the most popular lots to go under the hammer on Monday (20 October) at Plumpton Racecourse’s charity auction, which is part of the Moorcroft Charity Raceday.

Patrick Davis, chief executive of Plumpton Racecourse, says: “This is the fourth time we have run a Charity Raceday in aid of Moorcroft Racehorse Welfare Centre and, since 2000, we have raised over £100,000. We are hoping to raise around £40,000 again this year.”

Nominations to Silver Patriarch and Celtic Swing must be among the most valuable lots on sale: Celtic Swing’s stud services are valued at 12,000 Euros. Another lot comprises a morning on the gallops for four with successful young trainer Amanda Perrett, followed by a days racing at Goodwood, including a gourmet picnic by “Picnic Anywhere”.

Showbiz fans will jump at the chance to bid for four tickets in a box to see “Anything Goes” in London, or two tickets to the premier of Sea Biscuit plus the opportunity to join in the celebrations afterwards. Adrenaline junkies can opt to put their money forward to take the training day for two with the Red Arrows.

A villa in Marbella for a week, a seven-course meal at “Le Manoir Aux Quatre Saisons”, antique silk headscarfs, signed cricket memorabilia and an original painting are also on offer.

Leading National Hunt trainer Richard Philips will conduct the auction and there is also a silent auction where bidders can vie for up to six lots including a cottage in Dorset over New Year’s Eve and a VIP hospitality package at Plumpton Racecourse for 10.

“We’ve got 250 guests supporting the event,” says Patrick. “Tickets for the all-inclusive VIP tent where the auction is being held are priced at £75 each.”

Another highlight of the day will be the Aston House Stud Charity Flat Race, which will feature well-known equestrian celebrities. A team of six girls, including Jeanette Brakewell (pictured), under the non-riding captain Mike Cattermole, will take on Alice Plunkett’s team of six boys.

• For more information about the work done by the Moorcroft Racehorse Welfare Centre visit: www.mrwc.org.uk

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