Toni Veitch has seen Bank End Equine Rescue centre inundated with abused and neglected horses in recent months due to the recession, including 12 former race horses.

She's hoping local businesses and individuals can help with donations to cope with the recent influx to build six more stables to house the horses and bring mains electricity to the site.

Speaking from the not-for-profit organisation, she said: "We've managed to re-home some of the horses, but we have taken a lot on this year.

"The majority do have valuable futures. If there's nothing in place to re-home them, they could end up in the knacker's yard.

"We're not asking for huge amounts of money, but even if everyone gave us their spare change it would make a huge difference to us."

A recent contribution of £750 from English Village Salads in Camblesforth has brought mains water to the site, and local podiatrist Rebecca Smith has donated her time to care for the horses' hooves, Toni said.

To make a donation, send a cheque payable to Bank End Equine Rescue to 29 Brigg Lane, Camblesforth, Selby Y08 8HL, or call 0751 3626282 to arrange a visit. Visit the www.bankendequinerescue.com website for further information or to make a PayPal donation.