IHWT launch fundraising auction The Irish Horse Welfare Trust (IHWT), Ireland’s leading equine welfare charity, have launched their Christmas Internet Auction to raise the additional funds needed to help pay for the purchase and development of their recently acquired farm at Woodenbridge, Co Wicklow. A major capital appeal helped the Charity to buy the farm in October 2008 where it is currently caring for more than 60 horses. Residents at the farm include rescued thoroughbred horses and ponies of various types, sizes and ages, along with 14 ex-racehorses which are in a special programme to be retrained for re-homing having completed their racing careers.   In 2005 the first online auction raised in the region of €170,000, while more than €75,000 was raised last year. Despite the current financial climate, everyone involved with the IHWT is optimistic that the 2009 figure can be exceeded. The items already donated include a framed print by artist and Rolling Stones musician Ron Wood, and visits to the yards of Aidan O’Brien, Nicky Henderson, Jessica Harrington, Sir Michael Stoute and Paul Nolan. Unique single colour silks are also on offer, together with fantastic corporate packages to many racecourses, race sponsorship, Frankie Dettori signed Goldophin silks and even a round of golf with top flat jockey Johnny Murtagh.   The auction commences at 9am this morning, and will close at 5pm on Monday 6th December. Please log on to www.ihwt.ie/auction to place your bid. Items can still be accepted during the auction by contacting Avril on the number/email below. Avril Perrin from Perrin O'Dwyer PR & Event Management on 087 2831793 or avril@podprs.com
