A 10-year-old girl from Dorset has pledged to continue to raise money for an equine charity this year after her successful fundraising efforts of 2024.
Maisie Trim raised over £1,100 for World Horse Welfare last year after she completed a 10-mile sponsored walk, climbed a 49m high tower, organised a tack sale and sold handmade Christmas wreaths.
Maisie has decided to continue to fundraise for the charity in 2025 and has launched a YouTube channel, Maisie’s Mane Mission, so people can follow her journey.
For her birthday last summer, Maisie visited Glenda Spooner Farm, World Horse Welfare’s Somerset Rescue and Rehoming Centre, and it was there that her desire to help the horses was ignited.
A month later two horses Maisie used to ride, Harry and Lilac, who belonged to her godmother, passed away and she decided to undertake the 10-mile hike to raise money in their name.
‘I’m not much of a walker’
“My friends and family thought I was a bit crazy and some did not think I would do it at first,” said Maisie.
“They had a point, as I’m not much of a walker and will be the first to start moaning that my legs hurt halfway through a one-mile walk.
“I am also scared of heights and the top of the tower was a long way from the ground but, on 10 August 2024 I achieved my goal and even though my legs hurt for days after, it was worth it.”
The walk raised over £600. Maisie then made £300 through a tack sale and took the total amount raised to over £1,000 by selling some Christmas wreaths that she had made.
“I am so grateful to everyone who donated and supported me,” said Maisie.
“I had a lot of fun, faced new challenges and learned a lot, like if you want something bad enough you have to make it happen.”
2025 plans
Maisie’s ideas to raise money this year include hosting a competition where entrants have the chance to win prizes and running a hobby horse event at her school summer fete.
“We think Maisie is just amazing and love how many fundraising ideas she’s managed to think of already,” said Naomi Jones, World Horse Welfare’s south west regional fundraiser.
“We wish her lots of luck for her future efforts, and we are really looking forward to supporting her with her 2025 plans.
“We are extremely grateful to Maisie and everyone who supports our work to help horses who need it most, both in the UK and further afield.”
Images © World Horse Welfare.
