The Mare and Foal Sanctuary near Totnes is flinging open its doors this year to give people the chance to enjoy behind the scenes visits to its peaceful havens.

The charity, whose patrons are John Nettles and Angela Rippon, rescues horses and ponies that have been abandoned, neglected or abused.

More than 600 horses and ponies are currently cared for by the charity, which provides its charges with a sanctuary for life.

Covid restrictions over the last two years have meant the sanctuary hasn’t been able to welcome as many people as previous years.

But now the charity will be regularly opening its doors for people to meet horses and ponies face to face, chat to knowledgeable staff and see first-hand what it takes to run the sanctuary.

There will be a range of different ways to join in from traditional open days to private tours.

All visits to the sanctuary need to be booked ahead, but the team is keen to see as many people as possible when the doors are open.

During open days, visitors will be able to enjoy behind-the-scenes guided tours, connect with the rescued horses and ponies, hear their back stories and meet the knowledgeable grooms who care for them.

Visitors will also be able to hear about life-changing equine assisted learning activities and have a go at creating enrichment toys for the horses and ponies.

Free personalised tours take place on set days and each session lasts up to two hours.

The charity also runs arranged group visits from scouts to guides, to lunch clubs and photography groups.

Each visit will be tailored to the needs of the group and will include interaction with the horses and ponies, activities and meeting the staff.

On-site refreshments will be available to purchase, and visitors can also help raise vital funds by taking part in a hamper raffle, buying items from the pop-up shop or even adopting a pony they have met in person.

Booking in advance is essential as numbers are limited.

For more information, dates and booking details visit www.mareandfoal.org/events

The charity also shares top advice on horse care and wellbeing via its Confident Horse Training Series which includes webinars and events run throughout the year on subjects ranging from body language to needle shyness.

Its team of training and behaviour experts offer real-world, practical advice, and each webinar or event provides an in-depth look at a subject followed by the opportunity to ask questions at the end.

Sign up for notifications for the events at www.mareandfoal.org/horse-advice/the-confident-horse