CHANNEL 4 racing guru John McCririck will be among celebrities attending the first open day at the West's only racehorse rehabilitation centre run by the charity Greatwood on September 1.

Greatwood moved its centre from Devon to Rainscombe Hill Farm, at Clench Common, near Marlborough earlier this year and provides rehabilitation for horses when their racing careers are over. Many are saved from going to auction and ending up on continental dinner plates.

About 20 horses at a time can be accommodated at the former dairy farm where Michael and Helen Yeadon and their staff rehabilitate the highly strung racing animals so that they can be found new homes.

Only a small percentage, said Mr Yeadon, do not respond the re-training and have to be put out to permanent pasture. The majority end up as pets with many more years of leisure riding left in them.

Greatwood is one of only three such centres in the country and costs £150,000 a year to run of which £50,000 is contributed by the British Horseracing Board .

The open day on September 1 is designed to raise awareness of the work of the Greatwood charity and to raise funds towards its running costs.

Mr Yeadon said plans were in hand to improve and extend the facilities for retired race horses and eventually provide riding for special needs and disabled children.

The September 1 event starts at noon and will include a parade of horses rehomed by the charity and will be led by this year's Grand National winner Bindaree.

Celebrity jockeys will be taking part in a football match and there will be a tug-of-war between stable lads and girls.

Other entertainment will include a falconry exhibition, parade by the Tedworth hounds, terrier racing and music from the Phoenix Brass Band. The gates open at 11am with the official opening by John McCririck at noon.

Donations can be sent to Rainscombe Hill Farm, Clench Common, Marlborough, SN8 4DT or telephone pledges can be made on (01672) 514535.

Admission for the open day and country fair is £5 with free entry for under 15s.