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ZoneZine reader Michelle Holland tells us about the local good causes who stand to benefit from sales of her book 'The adventures of Bella & Emily'. I became passionate about pony rescue after taking on a neglected New Forest pony 24 years ago who I called Bella. What really touched my heart and was priceless was the transformation over a one year period - after some hard work and understanding Bella turned into a healthy & trusting pony. In 1995 I opened my own sanctuary for New Forest ponies and saved and re-homed over 57 from slaughter over a 5 year period. This was so rewarding and totally voluntary and I had to raise over £80,000 a year to keep it going. I took on Chelsea who was 6 months old, she was riddled with lice and worms and would attack any man who came near her, after plenty of patience and tender loving care we formed a truly awesome and special relationship, and I decided I would keep her myself! I had a lot of difficult ponies, young foals that I rescued who had been taken away from their homes too early. Wild mares, and many sick foals who needed calm and understanding and ongoing veterinary care. Body language played a very important part and I had over 30 volunteers helping on a rota, this is how I met my best friend Hannah. Chelsea is on permanent loan with friends in Norfolk and she actually got to compete at Burghley. I received an award from the Mayor of Eastbourne for my hard work within the community. I also published a book called Shelly finds her dream pony Chelsea, 4 years ago, an American book critic Sue said my book was too perfect, she has helped and encouraged me to re-write the book and to bring in rescue work this is now The Adventures of Bella & Emily. I have suffered with fibromyalgia for 5 years and arthritis in my neck so my days of helping horses and ponies hands on are sadly over. This is why I decided to help the 5 organisations I have chosen to benefit from 50% profit from the kindle sales and paperback sales of my book. I know thehard work, heart ache and commitment that goes on behind the scenes and without help they cannot continue to do the amazing work they do. My book is also an ideal gift.  About my book Emily Pope is Thirteen years old and lives near the South Downs. Ever since she can remember she has dreamt of owning her own pony. The pony will be her best friend and they will share many adventures together. Emily's parents think she is too young for the responsibility of owning a pony and needs to gain more experience before they will consider it. So the adventure begins. Emily starts work at the nearby riding stables, works hard and learns everything she can. Will her parents relent when they see how single minded she is? Will Emily find her dream pony? This story will touch the heart of any youngster who loves ponies and take them on a delightful journey. There will be tears, laughter and joy along the way but will it be worth it in the end? Last week on the 2nd January I donated 100% of all of my profits, £1568.08 between my 5 chosen animal rescues from the royalties (kindle & paperback) and book signing sales from my self-published book, The adventures of Bella & Emily. Buy 'The Adventures of Bella & Emily' on Amazon here To those of you who have bought my book, you have made these donations possible, so a very big THANK YOU to you from the bottom of my heart. Michelle Holland My 5 rescues are: Helping Paws HorseWorld Trust Leinster Horse and Pony Rescue & Brooke Action For Working Horses and Donkeys. QUICK LINKS Home All articles Local history articles What's on Calendar ----------------- Local businesses we love ----------------- Contact us List your event for free Advertise with us ----------------- Buylocal website & Local offers |
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