Forres, Nairn and District Riding for the Disabled Association to invest £2258.68 from the Co-op Local Community Fund in running costs
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A THERAPEUTIC riding group for children with disabilities has been awarded more than £2000 towards running costs.
Forres, Nairn and District Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) chairwoman Sonia Howell confirmed the group will use £2258.68 from the Co-op Local Community Fund for providing therapeutic horse riding sessions, using trained ponies, qualified staff and volunteers.
Every time the supermarket scheme members buy selected branded products and services, they give local causes chosen by customers a helping hand.
Sonia said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive such a fantastic amount. We have been in the Forres store once a month for the last year – staff and customers have been kind and supportive.”
A year ago, Storm Arwen seriously damaged the indoor arena at Burgie Eventing Centre where the group is based so RDA currently operate at Muiryhall at Miltonduff during term time.
Each Monday session costs the charity about £700 in pony hire, instruction, venue hire, insurance etc.
Sonia said: “That means we need to raise £23,000 a year just to keep going. We are the only group in Scotland that makes no charge to our riders.”
Every week, RDA takes 32 of the 39 children riding. Some schools alternate pupils so they attend fortnightly.
“This means more children can benefit from riding,” said Sonia. “We have two qualified coaches but we are completely run by volunteers. Volunteers lead the ponies and walk beside the pony, supporting the riders. Depending on the riders’ needs, some have two side walkers.
“With eight ponies that means we need 16 volunteers per ride, plus others to help riders put hats on, mount etc.”
If you can help, please email forresnairnrda@gmail.com or call 0777 9082202.
