Christmas is a time for magic and surprises and that’s certainly what greeted clients of St Matthew’s Community Centre in Holbeck on Thursday afternoon as they got a visit from a thoroughbred racehorse and a Shetland pony!
This was the second in a series of events organised by the collaboration of Pontefract Racecourse and Racing Together, as part of a Pilot Programme using the power of racing and horses to bring people together and combat loneliness. Members of the Holbeck Together Community Group had visited Pontefract Racecourse for the racing season finale on Thursday 20th October and the second event saw their own community centre become the focus of the action.
Racehorse trainer Jo Foster and her wonderful team arrived in Holbeck with ten-year-old racehorse Conquredalofeurope and his Shetland Pony companion, as well as with an equicizer (mechanical horse simulator) for those visiting to experience.
Chris Darcy, Community Engagement and Support Worker at Holbeck Together, said: “Today’s racehorse and pony event was truly special. The community were absolutely amazed by the animals, and for many people it was the first time they had ever seen a racehorse or pony up close, especially inside our community centre.
“With a touch of Christmas spirit added in, the event brought real joy to our clients and helped make Christmas feel special for everyone. There were a wonderful feel-good factor and genuine excitement throughout the day. Many of our clients are isolated and vulnerable, and this event helped raise awareness while creating moments of happiness, connection, and inclusion”.
Jonathan Mullin, CEO of Pontefract Racecourse, said: “Inner city Leeds would not be somewhere you would expect to stumble across a racehorse and was wonderful to see the horses bring a smile to the faces of everyone, young and old. Huge thanks to Jo Foster and her fantastic team.
“We look forward to holding further events through 2026 in collaboration with Racing Together and hopefully using the power of racing and the stars of the show, the horses, to create more happy moments and bring people together”.
Another aspect of the programme, the Pontefract Racecourse Soup Kitchen, which has taken place on each Tuesday through December, will also be held on Tuesday 6th January. All are welcome to join for free soup, tea, coffee biscuits and a chat!