Mark Todd ‘sold’ at charity auction

Eventers have raised more than £30,000 for charity, with the likes of Mark Todd and former England footballer David James offering a day’s hard graft to the highest bidder.

Eventing Family

The auction was part of the inaugural Eventing Family’s fundraising event held during Bicton Arena’s international horse trials. The aim of the party was to raise cash for four charities which have helped eventers during recent months.

Ben Hobday, who is currently undergoing treatment for cancer,is one eventer who inspired organiser Aaron Miller to set up the Eventing Family.

Powerful community

“The power of the horsey community is unbelievable and through the Eventing Family it can be channelled to help people and let them know support is here,” he said.

The auction raised thousands, with a day’s labour from Mark Todd going for £1,200. Other lots included life membership to British Eventing (£1600), dinner for four with Harry Meade (£860) and four weeks breaking in with Padraig McCarthy (£800).

The auctioneer was James Green, whose daughter Jemima was seriously injured in a car crash earlier this year.

‘Wonderful event’

‘“It was a wonderful event, brilliantly organised, and very enjoyable to be a part of. Very competitive bidding ensured a great result on the ten lots sold on the night,” said James. “The auction of ‘dogsbodies‘ later in the evening was a real eye opener for the huge crowd!”

The event was such as success the Eventing Family committee is considering becoming a registered charity so they can keep raising money.