HORSES in fancy dress helped raise money for animals in need.

A walk was held in aid of Essex Horse and Pony Protection Society which helps animals which have been poorly treated. A shire cross horse, called Sefton, raised the most sponsorship money for the charity with £329.

He had previously been rescued by the sanctuary in Pitsea Hall Lane, Pitsea, before being adopted.

Sue Allery, who runs the sanctuary, said: “All these lovely horses turned out to help the rescue horses we look after.

“There were also horses there that were ours, like Sefton, and they’ve raised money for their pals.”

The horses were dressed as Indian squaws, fairies, and even the 118 118 team from the TV advert.

Mrs Allery said they raised in excess of £1,000 thanks to the organising skills of trustee Glynis Cox and head groomer Laura Jardine.

This should help the charity deal with neglected animals which they need to raise £10,000 a month to cope with.

She said: “People will ring us if they think a horse is in danger or being neglected. We go and invetigate. Sometimes an owner might need some advice, sometimes it’s cruelty either deliberately or through ignorance.”

To find out more or to donate visit www.ehpps.org.uk