Racehorse Sanctuary News

27th May 2008

The Racehorse Sanctuary Gala Night at Walthamstow Greyhound Stadium

Many of you will have received and hopefully replied to the information sent out regarding this exciting new event which takes place on Saturday 19th July at Walthamstow Greyhound Stadium in Chingford, London.

Sadly just a few weeks after agreeing terms with the stadium which has been a premier Greyhound Racing Stadium since 1933 it was announced that at the end of August this year it is to close and the site is to be sold to property developers. Hence, this could also be a nostalgic time for those who are familiar with the stadium as we will be the final Charity event to take place there which is why we want to make it a night to remember.

As you are aware we rely so much on fund raising to keep the centre going and last year there proved to be a gap in the calendar where we really struggled to meet the running costs which had to be filled hence the introduction of this exciting new venture. We are lucky enough to have a super committee consisting of Sue & I, Ann Azlett (director of Walthamstow Stadium), Gaynor Renwick (Trustee), Jill Hollamby (support group member), Linda Thompson (support group member), Kirstie Bray (support group member) and Beccy Green (Fontwell Park Executive). These form a formidable team who are determined to make this a successful event for the centre and hopefully some good memories for all those who have been involved with the stadium over the years.

The evening will take place in the luxurious Goodwood Lounge overlooking the race track and will be hosted by none other than the voice of greyhound racing and Sky TV Jonathan Hobbs who will be going through he card and giving his tips in his usual entertaining way. The evening will kick off at 7pm with a champagne reception and the first of 14 races is off at 7.45pm, throughout the evening there will be a silent auction, a raffle, and a heads & tails competition taking place and you can own a greyhound for a race which if eh/she wins will win you a bottle of champagne whilst a first class buffet supper will be served. A parade will also take place of the wonderful old chaser Glamanglitze who not only won races at Aintree and Cheltenham but was also the first winner on Tony McCoy’s six timer at Uttoxeter.

Tickets are just £45 per person or £425 for a table of ten and we are still looking for race sponsors at various prices ranging from £150 to £300, we are also looking for volunteers to help on the night. Everyone is welcome and it should be a night to remember so if you would like tickets or further information on any of the above please contact:

Graham Oldfield or Sue Collins on 01403 865929