Cobs to put in rare appearance at Badminton

A herd of cobs will be putting in an appearance at Badminton Horse Trials to raise awareness of World Horse Welfare’s 2016 campaign.

Invisible horses

The horses have been sculpted by artist Judy Boyt, who created the event’s iconic trophy, back in 1992. She was commissioned by World Horse Welfare – Badminton’s Charity of the Year – to sculpt one of their horses as part of the ‘Invisible Horse Trail’.

This aims to highlight the world’s invisible horses, who often suffer in silence as “people either cannot or choose not to see them” – from those left, neglected in barns and stables, to working equines in third world countries.

‘Amazing character’

Adoption horse May was selected as Judy’s muse, who she recreated in clay to be used as a mould for up to 15 fibreglass horses, standing at 7hh. Each one will be painted by well-known artists and personalities, before going on display at the international horse trials in May.

“I was delighted to meet the amazing character May, my hairy, chunky cob type model and at the same time see first-hand the care and diligent work carried out by all the staff at World Horse Welfare,” said Judy. “This experience has opened my eyes to the plight of too many neglected horses and ponies.”

‘Talented artists’

World Horse Welfare director of fundraising Emma Williams said the sculptures provide a “unique way” to tell the stories of World Horse Welfare horses and ponies, with the help oftalented artists and designers.

“We’re so grateful to Judy for helping us to bring the Invisible Horse Trail to fruition when only a couple of months ago it was just the seeds of an idea,” she said.

“Seeing our adoption horse May immortalised in her stunning clay maquette was a really special moment and we can’t wait to see the trail horses in action once our artists have worked their magic.”