Horse Rangers Association raising money for Aries (From Your Local Guardian)

East Molesey's Horse Rangers Association raising money for Aries

9:00am Saturday 16th June 2012 in Elmbridge By Louise Robertson

A youth charity is asking for donations to pay the hospital fees of a sick horse in intensive care.

Aries, one of the Horse Rangers Association’s star horses, is being treated for chronic grass sickness and has been hooked up to fluids at Liphook Equine Hospital in Hampshire.

Grass sickness is a debilitating disease that attacks the nervous system and, despite decades of research, the cause is still unknown.

Aries has bright moments where he wants to leave the hospital ward, but the horse rangers are still waiting for news he has really picked up and improved.

The 19-year-old grey gelding joined the rangers in East Molesey in 2004 after he retired from the Metropolitan Police Authority, where he did a seven-year stint on the streets.

He has become a firm favourite with the children and was last seen on official duty heading the rangers’ escort for the Queen when she visited Richmond Park as part of jubilee celebrations.

Stable manager Theresa Barratt said: “Aries is one of our stars. As well as giving lessons, as part of our horse management, he leads our musical ride display team.”

If you would like to contribute to Aries’ recovery, donate at uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/Aries.