Benson
Background
Benson came to us looking for a new home, but with some behavioural challenges that made him unhappy in his work, including a tendency to rear. Through careful retraining, time, and consistency, he has developed into a horse who now enjoys his sessions, particularly hacking out. Coming from a home with limited opportunities to get out, he absolutely loves a canter across the fields. Benson does require ongoing management to support his training and maintain positive relationships with his riders, but with the right approach, he continues to thrive.
Yearly Cost of Care £7030
Date of Birth
30th June 2008
Breed
Cob
Colour
Black
Medication
None
Feeding
Joint Supplements
About
Benson is a steady and reliable horse who suits a wide range of riders, from novices building confidence to more experienced riders refining their skills. As he has got older, he has stepped back from jumping, as it has become more demanding on his joints. To keep him comfortable and happy, he is supported with joint supplements and regular training focused on posture and muscle strength, helping him stay balanced and moving well.
Personality Quirks
Benson has a cheeky side, especially when it comes to putting his bridle on. He enjoys holding his head just out of reach, clearly playing a game, but a polite ask and a good neck scratch usually win him over. He can also be sensitive to noise, particularly on windy days when the indoor arena rattles, and may need a little extra reassurance to help him relax.
Why we Love them
We love Benson for his kind nature, patience, and honesty. He gives riders confidence, looks after those who are learning, and always tries his best. His gentle personality, combined with his cheeky moments, makes him a firm favourite on the yard, and we are proud to support him in enjoying a comfortable and well-cared-for life.
Choose your monthly support level
Whether you want to give a little or a lot, every monthly donation helps us care for the horses who make our work possible.
Harness Digital Supporter
£10 per month
A simple, meaningful way to help.
You’ll receive:
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A digital thank-you and welcome message
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Information about the horses you are helping to support
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Quarterly email updates with yard news, stories and photographs
Perfect for those who want to make a difference and stay connected in a simple, affordable way.
Harness Supporter
£25 per month
A heartfelt connection and regular updates.
You’ll receive:
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A top trumps pack with information about each of the horses.
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A photograph from the herd
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Quarterly email updates with news and stories
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A Christmas card featuring one of the horses
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An invitation to attend a Meet and Greet event during one of our open days
Perfect for anyone who wants to support and stay connected to the horses in a more personal way.
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Harness Champion
£50 per month
Everything from Supporter, with some extra treats.
You’ll receive everything in the Supporter package, plus:
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A Harness Champion T-shirt
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Your choice of a keyring, car window sticker or mug
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The chance to join a photoshoot at the yard and receive digital photographs to keep
This is a brilliant option if you’d like to wear your support proudly and enjoy a closer connection to the work we do.
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Harness Guardian
Become a Harness Guardian if you believe deeply in the work we do and want to stand behind it. Your support strengthens the foundation that allows our horses to support children, young people and adults through our programmes. As a Guardian, you will make a big impact on helping us care for the horses and sustain the community they are part of.
£100 per month
You’ll receive everything in the Supporter and Champion packages, plus:
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Your choice of a bracelet made from one of the horses’ tail hair or a handmade leather handbag stamped with the Harness Change logo
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Your name on a plaque at the yard recognising you as a Harness Guardian
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An invitation to our annual Harness Change Celebration Event, a special day with the team, the horses and fellow supporters