A RACEHORSE stables open day has raised more than £700 for a military charity.

Proceeds from the open day at John Weymes’ Ashgill Stables, in Middleham, North Yorkshire, were donated to ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, which helps serving and retired soldiers and their families in times of need.

Visitors were able to see behind the scenes of the racing yard, meet some of the racing stars trained there, and see a demonstration on equine dentistry from York-based Sammy Norris.

Staff from the North East and Yorkshire Regional Office of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity were also on hand to talk about the charity's work.

Afterwards, £720 was handed to Major Barney Barnbrook, regional director for North East and Yorkshire, at the charity’s offices at Catterick Garrison.

Representing John Weymes Racing, Peter Bickley, who runs High Moor Racing Partnerships and whose horses are trained at the stables, said: “How grateful we all are to the visitors and owners attending the day, and for the donations for this very worthy cause.”

Major Barnbrook added: “I am extremely pleased to receive the donation on behalf of the charity – my thanks go to everyone who made a donation.”

ABF The Soldiers’ Charity was established in 1944 to give enduring support to soldiers, former soldiers and their families in times of genuine need. For further information contact the regional office on 01748-874127, abfne@soldierscharity.org, or www.facebook.com/abfne.