Thirsk’s Catherine Wardroper has just returned home after a six-day trek across India’s Rajasthan state to raise money for international animal welfare organisation, the Brooke.
Catherine, for whom this was an entirely new type of challenge, made the trip of a lifetime as she took on the task of covering 125km on horseback, along with her sister Hester, as they followed the trails of ancient Kings across desert and farmland, past villages, forts and temples, all in aid of the charity.
- Catherine Wardroper in India (credit ©TheBrooke)
Having raised an incredible £10,000 so far, Catherine was able to see the Brooke’s work first hand during the trip when the group visited a brick kiln and village near Delhi. While there they saw how treatment and community programmes are making a lasting difference to the lives of working horses and donkeys, as well as the people who depend on them.
Catherine said:
The ride was quite tough – definitely a challenge – with up to 7 hours a day in the saddle, but the horses were wonderful to ride, I met some great people and loved seeing rural India.
I shall have plenty of tales to tell – from cold nights in tents and camels pulling carts, to snake charmers at lunch!
One of the highlights of the trip was the opportunity to see the Brooke’s work in action, in a brick kiln outside Delhi. We saw what was being achieved and how the Brooke’s work is helping not only the hard worked horses and donkeys but also the families who depend on them. This made all the fundraising and hard work getting ready for the ride seem really worthwhile.
The sisters don’t get to see each other very often since Hester emigrated to New Zealand, so not only was this trip a great opportunity to explore and raise money for the Brooke, it was also their chance to reunite with one another.
All the money raised will go towards helping improve the lives of hard working horses, donkeys and mules in some of the world’s poorest communities. Many animals work for up to 12 hours a day in unbearable conditions hauling heavy loads to support the families who rely on them.
Charlotte Hodivala, the Brooke’s Community Fundraising Manager said:
We’re delighted that Catherine and Hester took part in our Indian Horse Trek which was a unique and unforgettable journey for everyone involved.
It was real challenge but everyone was dedicated and the fantastic amount of money that was raised for the Brooke will help working horses and donkeys in countries such as India and Pakistan.
To find out more on the Brooke’s overseas challenge events please visit www.thebrooke.org/challenges
